- Tap (gaming)
Tapping is a term used in a variety of ways in a number of
game s. Although the exact meaning varies, it generally either refers to either the physical action of actuallytouch ing something, or to the "using up" of theresources of some element of the game.Collectible card games
In
collectible card games such as "" to tap a card means to use it so that it cannot be used again in that player's turn. [ [http://www.wizards.com/magic/rules/MagicRulebook_10E_EN.pdf untitled ] ] The visual indication of the tapped status is represented by turning the card 90 degrees to the right.On cards since "" (1994), tapping has been represented by a symbol, though this is not unique to the game of Magic: The Gathering. US patent|5662332 was filed by
Wizards of the Coast to patent the mechanics of some aspects of collectible card games, including tapping.Mechanics similar to tapping are used in many collectible card games, often involving the same 90 degree card rotation. For example, this act is referred to as "setting" in "
Ophidian 2350 ", while it is known as "committing" in the "Universal Fighting System ". In the medieval-Japan-themed "Legend of the Five Rings ", the mechanism is called "bowing". A few games, such as the "City of Heroes Collectible Card Game ", use several different rotational increments (90, 180, and 270 degrees), each denoting a different card status.MMORPGs
Tapping is commonly used in
MMORPG s as a term for dealing enough damage to a monster or enemy to gain access to its treasure (or "loot"). [cite web|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/basics/glossary.html|title="World of Warcraft" glossary|accessdate=2007-07-01] Usually only one person or group can tap the lootable enemy in question. Once "tapped", regardless of who kills the enemy, only the original tapping player(s) can receive the treasure.Touchscreen Gaming
When playing a game on a device that uses a
touchscreen for gaming -- such as theNintendo DS -- users touch the stylus to the screen as input. Touching a point on the screen and immediately removing the sylus from the screen is known at tapping the screen. This technique is used for a variety of reasons including selecting from a menu, exploring an environment, or using items and abilities.References
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