Damage over time (DoT) refers to a game mechanic where a character or enemy takes gradual damage over a set period, rather than all at once. This type of damage can be caused by various effects, such as poison, fire, or bleeding, and is often used in role-playing games and strategy games to create more dynamic combat scenarios. In many games, DoT effects can stack, meaning multiple sources of damage can be applied simultaneously, increasing the overall impact. Players often use skills or abilities that inflict DoT to weaken opponents, making it a strategic element in battles against monsters or bosses.