quake

Quake is a term with multiple meanings. In geology, an earthquake is the sudden shaking of the surface caused by the rapid release of energy in the Earth’s lithosphere. This energy release is usually the result of stress that accumulates as tectonic plates move and interact at fault lines, though earthquakes can also be driven by volcanic activity, landslides, or human activities. Seismic waves propagate from the focus of the event, and ground shaking is measured in magnitude (such as moment magnitude) and intensity (such as the Mercalli scale). Effects range from minor tremors to widespread damage and tsunamis in coastal areas. Preparedness, building codes, early warning systems, and response planning are common mitigation strategies.

In entertainment, Quake refers to a 1996 first-person shooter (FPS) developed by id Software. The game is noted for its real-time three-dimensional rendering, networked multiplayer play, and moddability, which helped popularize online gaming and user-made content. It used a proprietary engine—the Quake engine—advancing 3D graphics technology and enabling a variety of user-created mods and custom levels. The title spawned official expansions, including Scourge of Armagon and Dissolution of Eternity. Its success influenced the design of subsequent id Software titles and the broader FPS genre, leading to sequels and spin-offs such as Quake II (1997) and Quake III Arena (1999), as well as later remasters and online platforms like Quake Live.

Thus, quake can denote a natural geophysical event or a landmark video game and its associated engine and ecosystem, reflecting the term’s distinct domains of science and entertainment.