What Does DPS Mean in Games?
By Alex╺
- PS4
- PS5
- XBox One
- Series X
- PC
DPS stands for “Damage per Second.” It shows how much damage is done every second in a game.
This helps players decide which weapons, skills, or characters are the most powerful.
In some team-based games, like Overwatch, characters are built specifically for high DPS. These heroes focus on doing as much damage as possible quickly.
So, when you hear about DPS in games, think of it as a key part of game strategies that focuses on dealing with damage quickly!

What Does DPS Stand for in Gaming?
DPS is a key gaming concept that represents more than just a term. It includes different aspects:
- A Measurement: DPS stands for Damage Per Second. It shows how much damage is dealt over time. This helps players compare things like weapons, skills, or characters.
- A Role: In games like MMOs and MOBAs, “DPS” refers to players or characters whose main job is to deal damage to enemies.
- A Playstyle: Focusing on DPS means aiming to do as much damage as possible, sometimes ignoring defense or other priorities.
The Birth of DPS

The idea of tracking damage over time has existed since the beginning of RPGs and wargames.
However, the term “DPS” became popular with the growth of MMORPGs in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Games like EverQuest and World of Warcraft introduced the idea of roles focused on dealing with damage and measuring how much damage characters could deal.
As online gaming and theory-crafting communities expanded, understanding DPS became essential for improving gameplay and building strong characters.
Over time, the concept spread across different game types, from MMORPGs to MOBAs and shooters.
In Overwatch (2016), DPS became its category of characters, solidifying its importance in competitive gaming today.
DPS in Gaming: Common Uses and Examples
Here’s how DPS (damage per second) is often talked about in gaming:
- Weapon Comparison: “This sword deals more DPS than my old one.”
- Team Roles: “We need more DPS to take down this raid boss.”
- Player Specialization: “I main a DPS class in this MMO.”
- Game Abilities: “This skill boosts your DPS by 20% for 10 seconds.”
- Character Development: “I’m building a high DPS rogue.”
- Team Strategy: “Their team’s DPS is outdoing ours.”
- Patch Changes: “The latest update reduced DPS for ranged classes.”
Mastering DPS for Success

You’re all set, damage dealers! Now you know how to talk about, calculate, and improve DPS like a pro.
You have the skills to perfect your RPG character, choose the best weapon in a shooter, or take on the damage role in a raid.
Time for me to respect my character and hit those high-damage numbers!