negative-sum game

In game theory, a negative-sum game describes a situation where the total gains and losses are less than zero. This means that for one party to maintain their current position, they must take resources from another party.1

In contrast, a positive-sum game occurs when the total gains and losses exceed zero, often through an increase in resources where all parties' needs are met. A zero-sum game, however, results in a net gain or loss of zero, where one party's gain is directly balanced by another's loss. Negative-sum games tend to involve the most intense competition.12