What is strafed?

Strafing is a term used in video games and military combat that refers to the act of moving rapidly from side to side while firing a weapon. The term comes from the German word "strafen," which means "to punish" or "to penalize."

In video games, strafing is a common tactic used by players to avoid enemy fire while still maintaining their own offensive capabilities. This involves moving laterally while attacking or dodging, which can help to confuse opponents and make it more difficult for them to hit their target.

In military combat, strafing refers to a type of air attack where an aircraft fires a continuous stream of bullets or bombs at a target while flying in a straight line. Historically, strafing was used as a way to suppress enemy troops and prevent them from advancing or mounting a counterattack.

While strafing can be an effective tactic in certain situations, it also carries significant risks. In video games, players who rely too heavily on strafing may become predictable and vulnerable to counterattacks. In real-life combat, aircraft engaged in strafing runs are often exposed to anti-aircraft fire and other dangers.