[quote=&quot;aus Wikipedia&quot;:28bf9hk0]
A nerf is a change to the rules of a computer game that weakens a certain object or ability.

The term comes from the childsafe Nerf toys of soft foam and plastic, which are often made in the shape of guns, bats, or other weapons. The term originated in the MMORPG Ultima Online, where for a long period of time the sword skill was incredibly powerful. The designers eventually lowered its effectiveness, causing massive player outcry; they claimed that it seemed as though they were hitting with "Nerf Bats".[/quote:28bf9hk0]