lasthits

Lasthits, or last-hitting, is a core mechanic in many multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games. It refers to delivering the killing blow to an enemy unit—typically a minion or creep—to receive the game's gold reward and, depending on the title, experience. The practice is most visible during the laning phase, when players must farm minions while staying safe from opponents.

Execution hinges on timing and damage estimation. Players aim to deal the final blow at the moment a unit would otherwise die from its remaining HP, securing the gold and keeping the wave in a favorable position. Missing a last hit can reduce income, while overcommitting to a last hit can expose a player to risk from opponents. Effective last hitting often involves managing a minion wave, trading blows, and sometimes using abilities or items to finish off tough creeps.

Last hitting is closely tied to the game’s economy. The gold earned from last hits buys items that improve a hero’s or champion’s health, damage, and utility, shaping the early- to mid-game trajectory. In several MOBAs, there is also a deny mechanic, which allows a player to kill a unit to prevent the enemy from receiving gold and experience, further influencing lane dynamics.

Variations exist across titles. In some games, last hitting is the primary mechanic for acquiring lane gold and specific creep types have different gold values. In others, experience distribution and deny rules differ, altering the strategic emphasis of farming. Regardless, last hitting remains a fundamental skill that influences lane control, item timing, and overall game tempo.

Practice and strategy often focus on improving timing, wave management, and safe farming. Players employ techniques such as attack animation timing, using abilities to secure vulnerable minions, and coordinating with supports or junglers to optimize lane income.