Permadeath Definition - Glossary

Permadeath is a game mechanic where a character's death is permanent, requiring players to start over.

Permadeath is a game mechanic that introduces high stakes by making character death permanent. Unlike games where characters can respawn or reload from a save point, permadeath means that once a character dies, the player must start the game over from the beginning. This feature adds intense risk and strategic depth, often appealing to players seeking a challenging experience. Common in roguelike games, it emphasizes careful planning and decision-making, as mistakes can lead to significant loss. Permadeath creates a unique emotional investment in the character's survival and progression.