Player versus Player

Player versus Player (PvP) is a function of multiplayer in Terraria. Although the function is rarely used as teamwork is generally more fun, it can be fun to try and build structures to protect your items and such.

Certain block types are frequently used in this type of structure. These structures include hellstone mazes and spiked gauntlets.

PvP can be enabled by clicking on the swords in the inventory. You can only damage players that also have PvP enabled. There is currently no global PvP server option, though it could be added in the future.

People sometimes create PvP arenas in the sky, specifically for this type of fight. Unlike some games PvP battles are generally very quick and do not last long at all.

Overall PvP is basically a useless, or at least, a little used function. Teamwork is far more valuable than PvP, especially when players do not drop items.

Trivia

 * It was hinted by blue that players may have the ability to control what they drop/dont drop when they die.
 * When enabling pvp, armour/clothes in your "equipment slot" are visible instead of your social slot armour/clothes.