Nerf Syndrome

Refers to gaming occurences where certain features, functions or abilities within a game (electronic or otherwise) experience cycles of nerfing.

It also refers to a feedback loop in game balance and development.

It commonly occurs due to bad reputations attached to nerfed items or abilities, which results in the abandonment of Y in favor of X. As X becomes more favored it appears to become OP (Overpowered) and risks being nerfed itself and thus repeating the cycle.

"They've nerfed almost every gun in this game because of the cry babies. Nerf Syndrome or what."

by Xzal January 8, 2015