Feature
James Hunt
15 Mar 2013
The modern FPS wouldn't be the same without the headshot. But are one-hit kills right for games, James wonders...
The release of Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 has us thinking about videogame combat mechanics. Specifically, the idea of the one-shot kill. When one bullet means the difference between success and failure, how can the potential for an instakill affect the way we play - and indeed, is it actually a good thing?
In most shooters, the easiest way to get an instant kill is to go for a headshot. Depending on how tactical a game it is, you may have to use a high-powered weapon, such as a sniper rifle, while in others a simple pistol will suffice. Sometimes it can be mitigated by a helmet, or the type of ammo used - but what usually matters isn't the equipment you choose, but the skill and accuracy you display in hitting a relatively small area on your opponent. This is why games like Modern Warfare 2 give gamers the "One Shot, One Kill" bonus. To enc![]()
