Status effects are temporary conditions that can alter a character's abilities or performance in games, often seen in role-playing games (RPGs) and video games. These effects can be positive, like buffs that enhance a character's strength or speed, or negative, like debuffs that weaken them or inflict damage over time. Common status effects include poison, which gradually reduces health, and stun, which prevents a character from taking actions for a short period. Understanding these effects is crucial for strategic gameplay, as they can significantly influence the outcome of battles and encounters.