'Mob' is a word that generally indicates any of the hostile monsters/NPCs in the game. Both ZK, his tag-alongs and all other random monsters can be referred to as mobs. Key elements in the words usage are that the indicated target-object has to be both an NPC and hostile.
Monsters such as the aforementioned ZK are both non-playable characters and hostile, thus its status as a mob. Captain Shutian in Elderine on the other hand is not hostile so is not commonly referred to as a mob.
'Mob' as a word may have its orgins in the original MUDs where ''mobile'' (hostile NPCs which could move) adversaries first made their appearance. It may also have orgins in the phenomenon of monsters ''mobbing'' you when you come into their target/aggro range. Wandering or inciting the ire of multiple hostiles will cause them to follow you for a distance from their original spawn-point, if you choose to stand and fight, the numerous monsters will then proceed to swarm and 'mob' you.
Last edited by Ivramire; 09-15-2009 at 06:04 AM..
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