cloaker

A cloaker is a type of stealth-based unit or ability commonly found in real-time strategy (RTS) and first-person shooter (FPS) video games. The term originates from the game *StarCraft*, where cloaking was introduced as a tactical feature allowing units to become invisible to enemy detection while remaining active. Cloaking typically involves a unit entering a hidden state, rendering it undetectable on the minimap or radar until it moves, attacks, or is manually revealed by the player.

In RTS games, cloakers are often specialized units designed for ambush tactics, enabling players to bypass enemy defenses or launch surprise attacks. For example, in *StarCraft*, the Ghost is a cloaking unit capable of stealth movement, making it useful for reconnaissance and sabotage missions. Some games also feature cloaking abilities as passive traits for certain units, such as the *Warcraft III* unit called the Shadow Priest, which can briefly become invisible.

Cloaking mechanics vary by game, with some implementing detection ranges, cloaking durations, or energy costs. Certain titles, like *Command & Conquer* or *Age of Empires*, incorporate cloaking as a strategic element in siege warfare or espionage. In modern games, cloaking has evolved into more advanced forms, such as "ghosting" or "invisibility fields," where units may also evade damage or tracking systems.

While cloaking enhances gameplay depth by introducing risk-reward mechanics, it can also lead to frustration if overused, as it may disrupt fair play dynamics. Some games include countermeasures like radar jamming or detection drones to mitigate its effectiveness. Overall, cloaking remains a popular feature in competitive and narrative-driven gaming, offering players a tactical edge in high-stakes engagements.