Is fire better than lightning?
Neither fire nor lightning is universally "better" – they are both incredible forces of nature with the capacity for great destruction or creation, depending on the context. By analyzing key attributes of each and their memorable depictions in games, we can better understand and respect their formidable power.
Key Characteristics
Fire
| Temperature | Over 1,300°C (2,372°F) at core |
| Speed | Up to 14 mph, depending on fuel and conditions |
| Usages | Cooking, lighting, heating, propulsion, weaponry, toolmaking, agriculture |
- Ancient element with rich symbolic ties to human culture
- Unique in its self-sustaining properties once ignited
- Teaches survival skills; can refine resources through controlled burning
Lightning
| Temperature | 30,000°C (54,000°F) |
| Speed | 270,000 mph |
| Usages | Natural nitrogen fixation, ozone creation; inspired inventions like lightning rod, electronics |
- 1,000 times more powerful than household wiring
- Heats surrounding air to 25,000°C, causing shock waves (thunder)
- Sparks forest fires, linking it intrinsically to fire cycles
Depictions in Games
Fire and lightning have left indelible impressions through depictions in games.
Fire Magic
A 2018 study found over 175 game abilities clearly associated with fire power. Some iconic examples:
- Mario‘s Fire Flower transforms abilities since 1985.
- The Elder Scrolls mages cast Fireball and other pyro spells.
- Pokemon like Charizard and Moltres wield the formidable Fire Blast.
Game environments also showcase the visual impact of fire – crackling embers in Minecraft, swirling infernos in FFVII‘s Fire3.
Lightning Powers
Lightning augments speed and reaction times in games. Electrifying examples include:
- Infamous features lightning bolt attacks and rail grinding.
- Mortal Kombat ninjas wield lightning blades.
- Juli Kidman harasses Sebastian with lightning strikes in The Evil Within.
Crackling electric anomalies also bring hazardous terrain to life, as in Halo‘s Plasma Grenades.
The devastating destruction possible is epitomized in Fate Unlimited Codes – one blast of Excalibur‘s lightning completely engulfs the screen.
Responsible Depiction
Game creators should continue raising awareness about fire and lightning safety while capturing their thrilling qualities. As climate change worsens their real-world impacts, it is also vital we respect their role in natural cycles.
Neither fire nor lightning is intrinsically "superior." But when treated cautiously and in context, both can inspire awe. Just as natural phenomena mutually shape each other, so too can games promote ecology over ego as we wield environmental powers responsibly.
