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When the AI magically gets faster because you're winning, like an invisible rubber band pulling them back into the race.
Rubber banding is an artificial catch-up mechanic where trailing AI opponents receive speed boosts or other advantages to keep the competition close. It's named after the feeling of being connected by a rubber band -- you can pull ahead, but the further you go, the harder it snaps back. Some games are transparent about it, others hide it. The mechanic is controversial: it keeps races exciting but can make skilled play feel pointless. When done poorly, first-place players get punished while last-place AI teleports forward.
Example
Mario Kart is the poster child for rubber banding. The AI in first place drives noticeably slower than when it's behind, and item distribution heavily favors players in the back. That Blue Shell everyone loves to hate? Pure rubber banding in item form.
Why it matters
Rubber banding is one of gaming's most debated mechanics. It keeps multiplayer fun for mixed-skill groups but infuriates competitive players who feel their lead is artificial. For devs, it's a tool for accessibility, but overusing it destroys the sense of earned victory.
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