Splash damage - Definition and Overview

Splash damage, also known as radius damage or area of effect (AoE), is a term used in several types of games, most notably in first-person shooter and real-time strategy computer games, to refer to indirect damage done in the area surrounding a point of weapon impact. Splash damage is most commonly caused by explosive weapons such as grenades or rockets.

Splash damage weapons are very effective when firing into a group of enemies. They are also useful against moving targets at medium range — experienced players often fire at the ground near the opponent's feet, ensuring that the target is hurt even if the weapon does not score a direct hit. Using splash-damage weapons up close is not recommended since you might inadvertently blow yourself up.

In strategy games, splash damage means that units around the target will also be damaged. However, unlike first-person shooter splash damage, this rarely damages friendly units. The term is also used in table-top role-playing games and wargames.