debuff
(in a video game) a category of spell, skill, or item that decreases characters’ attributes or abilities: Rather than fighting with them directly, the tarot cards are used for debuffs.
(in a video game) to decrease a character’s or characters’ attributes or abilities with a spell, skill, or item: The goal of this build is to debuff enemies and then wade in with melee.
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Nick had long dreamed of being summoned to a fantasy world. Once he actually had been, he found the experience lacking. He was supposed to have been given overpowered abilities and been surrounded by cute girls. Oh he had been given an ability that could potentially be powerful, extremely so. But now, while he was just starting out? It was not terribly awe inspiring. And the complete lack of cute girls was particularly grating.
He looked over the dingy tavern-like building. The place was filled with adventurers, but none of them fit into the “cute girl” category. Oh sure, there were women, but most of them looked like they could rip him in half. Oddly enough, even those who obviously leaned towards the magical side of combat looked like that. It was baffling.
The only thing more baffling was the only person who did not fit the bill, and how said individual was being treated by the other adventurers. It was a teen boy, not much younger than Nick was. He was also tiny, both in terms of his physical stature and his presence. The guy was going from group to group, obviously trying to join one. And every time he was flatly rejected.
Nick could guess the general reason. This world liked things that were big, powerful and easily noticeable. Why use a dagger when you could have a greatsword? Why use a small firebolt when a huge fireball was right there? It was why Nick had not been treated well by his summoners. And going by how the small guy was being treated, his abilities fell into the less flashy and instantly destructive school.
The teen noticed Nick, sitting alone. Nick grinned and waved him over.
“No luck forming a party, huh?” Nick asked once the guy sat down.
“No. I guess it’s the same with you?”
“Yup. It sucks, doesn’t it? A life of adventure filled with beautiful women and vast fortune. And no one of it goes to guys like us.”
Nick’s new companion nodded. Nick continued talking.
“So, why does nobody want you? Oh, I’m Nick, by the way.”
“Weird name. I’m Cer. And nobody wants me because I’m a mage who can’t use any damage dealing spells. Not because I don’t want to, but because I just can’t. I’ve tried.”
“Damn, that must be rough. What can you use?”
“Debuffs.” Cer said. “I can weaken enemies in a few different ways. I know it’s not as great as throwing lighting or fire, but…”
“Are you kidding? That’s a great set of spells!” Nick meant it. Back in his original world, debuff spells had been his bread and butter in games. Not flashy, but so very useful if used correctly. “Anyone who can’t see the value of lowering a monster’s stats is just an idiot.”
Cer looked at Nick with wide eyes. “Y-you think my magic is useful?”
“Super useful. A well timed debuff can turn a tough fight into a sure win. You can help save lives with that kind of magic.”
“Save lives? But how? I can’t use barrier or healing magic.”
“No, but you can weaken a monster’s attack power so it can’t kill a person right away. And lowering something’s defense? Well, that’s just amazing.” Nick said. Cer looked confused. “Look, say it takes me ten seconds to kill a monster normally. But if you debuff its speed or defense, then it might only take me, say, six seconds to kill that same monster. That’s four extra seconds that I can use to start dealing with the next monster. A monster that might otherwise reach an innocent person.”
“Wow. I…I never thought about that.” Cer said. “I was always told that magic that doesn’t hurt a monster is useless.”
“Those guys are dumb. The way I see it, any extra damage that’s done due to your debuffs count as your damage just as much as the warrior or mage who inflicted it.” Nick paused and thought for a moment. “Also, I’m pretty sure things like poison counts as a debuff. Maybe you’ll be able to learn something like that someday. Anyway, if you learn how to use your magic right, you’ll be super useful.”
Cer was quiet for a moment. “You really think so? That I can be valuable?”
“Oh sure, easily. How about we team up and I’ll see what you can do?”
“I…I think I’d like that.”
Nick nodded. Cer might not be a cute girl, but this was only his first potential teammate. And it was important to have a bit of male companionship, if only for the sake of mental wellbeing. Yes, he could see this team up leading to many great things in the future.
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Never underestimate support and utility abilities. They can be just as important as the damage dealing stuff when used correctly.
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