Stall - Games

In game design, 'stall' refers to intentional pacing mechanics that create tension or strategic depth. It manifests as cooldown periods, resource scarcity, or environmental obstacles forcing players to pause aggression. Common in strategy and survival genres, stalls balance action with deliberation—like tower defense waves or survival crafting timers. Symbolically, stalls represent vulnerability or preparation phases, testing patience and planning over reflexes. They prevent gameplay from becoming monotonous, adding rhythmic variety that enhances immersion through controlled frustration and earned progression.