What is "Gun-To-Hand"?

In game design, "gun-to-hand" refers to the strategic imbalance between players equipped with ranged weapons and those reliant on melee combat. Typically, the player wielding a firearm enjoys the distinct advantage of engaging foes from a safe distance, exploiting the cover, and maintaining a tactical edge over melee-oriented adversaries.

Consider a scenario in a first-person shooter where one player embodies a sniper armed with a powerful rifle, while another opts for a melee-focused character armed with a blade or close-range weapon. The sniper, benefiting from superior reach and precision, can strategically position themselves in an avantage point, picking off targets from afar with reduced risk of retaliation. Meanwhile, the melee player must navigate the terrain, dodge projectiles, and skillfully close the gap to engage effectively. This creates a palpable tension in the gameplay, requiring the melee combatant to employ cunning tactics, such as utilizing cover, flanking maneuvers, or unexpected routes, to outmaneuver the ranged adversary.

The concept of "gun-to-hand" design not only introduces strategic depth but also fosters a dynamic gaming experience where players must diversify their approaches based on their chosen playstyle. Game developers must carefully balance these disparities to ensure that both ranged and melee options remain viable, promoting diverse and engaging encounters that cater to various player preferences and strategies.