wallhugging

Wallhugging, also written wall hugging, is the practice of moving or standing close to a wall or edge to minimize exposure to opponents, cameras, or sensors. The concept relies on the wall to provide concealment or cover, reducing direct line-of-sight and allowing stealthy movement or observation. The term is used across gaming culture and real-world tactical discussions, though it is informal rather than a formal doctrine.

In video games, wallhugging is a common cover-based technique. Players press against walls to stay out of an enemy's field of view, then step out briefly to engage, loot, or scout around corners. Corner peeking is a related technique in which the player exposes only a small portion of their body as they check for threats. Games often reward disciplined wallhugging with safer navigation through open sections or ambush opportunities, while poor execution can leave a player exposed.

In real-world contexts, urban warfare and law-enforcement training discuss similar behaviors under the broader categories of use of cover and movement near walls. The tactic aims to reduce exposure to crossfire and detection, using corners, doorways, and narrow corridors to minimize risk. Practitioners must balance concealment with awareness of blind spots; wallhugging can create hazards if a corner is not properly checked or if lighting and acoustics reveal the operator.

See also: cover, concealment, stealth, peeking.