Description
In the world of competitive fighting games, 'Ice' refers to a tactic where a player deliberately halts or slows down the game to throw off their opponent’s rhythm and concentration. This can be achieved through various means such as taking a longer break between rounds, using the pause function, or even engaging in non-gameplay related activities like adjusting equipment or talking to the referee. The primary goal of icing is to disrupt the opponent's momentum, which is crucial in fast-paced fighting games where players rely heavily on maintaining a flow and rhythm. By breaking this flow, the 'Icer' hopes to gain a psychological advantage, making it harder for the opponent to regain their previous level of performance and focus.
Examples
- During a high-stakes tournament, Player A used the pause function right after losing a round. This brief interruption caused Player B to lose their focus, leading to a series of mistakes when the game resumed.
- In a local competition, Player X took an extended break to adjust their controller settings. This delay broke the momentum of Player Y, who had been on a winning streak, giving Player X an edge when the game continued.
Additional Information
- While 'Icing' can be a legitimate tactic, it is often viewed negatively and can be considered unsportsmanlike.
- Some tournaments have rules in place to prevent excessive pausing or delaying to ensure fair play.