The term nerf in respect to video games was actually derived from Nerf guns. Because Nerf guns are basically just normal guns that have been heavily nerfed ๐
this post was submitted on 21 Jun 2024
110 points (89.3% liked)
Showerthoughts
29786 readers
331 users here now
A "Showerthought" is a simple term used to describe the thoughts that pop into your head while you're doing everyday things like taking a shower, driving, or just daydreaming. A showerthought should offer a unique perspective on an ordinary part of life.
Rules
- All posts must be showerthoughts
- The entire showerthought must be in the title
- Avoid politics
- 3.1) NEW RULE as of 5 Nov 2024, trying it out
- 3.2) Political posts often end up being circle jerks (not offering unique perspective) or enflaming (too much work for mods).
- 3.3) Try c/politicaldiscussion, volunteer as a mod here, or start your own community.
- Posts must be original/unique
- Adhere to Lemmy's Code of Conduct
founded 1 year ago
MODERATORS
I think the direct implication is that the bullets are padded with foam. Softened.
Yeah, it comes from debuffs, which was applied to early FPS games when a gun was debuffed, which made the bullets hit less like bullets and more like nerf darts.
This gun used to take a guy out in 2 body shots and now its 5, like I'm shooting with a nerf gun!
Then the term spread around to non FPS games.
Why is that ironic?
"Nerf" is an opposite to a "buff" in videogame context.
I get that. Where is the irony? I think to be ironic there needs to be some air of unexpectedness. I certainly think it's amusing to say that you were buffing a nerf gun, but maybe not unexpected
But I think Alanis Morissette would be on board
The irony is that you would think nerfing a nerf gun would improve it, because it's more nerf per nerf.
That's not ironic in the slightest. Take a pellet gun. Buff it, it's a real gun. Nerf it, it's a BB gun, or a Nerf gun.