A hitbox is an invisible shape used by a game to detect contact. If an attack, projectile, character, or object touches the hitbox, the game can count it as a hit.
Why hitboxes matter
Players notice hitboxes when a shot seems to miss but still counts, or when an attack appears to connect but does not. Accurate hitboxes make combat and movement feel fair.
Hitbox versus hurtbox
Some games separate hitboxes and hurtboxes. A hitbox is the area that can deal damage, while a hurtbox is the area that can receive damage.
Hitboxes are important in shooters, fighting games, platformers, boss fights, and any game where precise collision matters.