Ping is a vital metric in online gaming, especially in fast-paced games like Overwatch. It measures the time, in milliseconds (ms), it takes for data to travel from your computer to the game server and back. This delay, often called 'latency,' impacts how quickly your actions are registered in the game. A lower ping means a more responsive gaming experience, where your moves are almost instantly reflected. Conversely, a high ping can lead to lag, with a noticeable delay between your actions and the game's response. Understanding ping is crucial for gamers who strive for peak performance and seamless gameplay.