Buffs and nerfs: what they mean in video games

In video games, “buffs” and “nerfs” describe changes that make a character or thing stronger or weaker.

Buffs

Buffs make something in the game stronger. If a character, skill, or item gets a buff, it has been changed to improve. This can mean it does more damage, has more health, or works faster. Buffs help to improve how well that part of the game works. Buffs are given when a character or item is too weak or the game makers want to help players use it more.

Nerfs

Nerfs weaken something in the game. If a character, skill, or item gets a nerf, it has been changed to be less powerful. This can mean it does less damage, has less health, or works slower. Nerfs are given when something in the game is too strong. When it is too strong, it can make the game less fair or too easy.

Example

With DPS buffs, characters or items do more damage in less time. This can mean a skill now hits harder, or a weapon attacks faster, and with DPS nerfs, the character or item does less damage over time. This can mean a skill now hits softer or a weapon attack slow