What constitutes a complete game in NCAA softball?

A complete game in NCAA softball is defined as one that lasts the full seven innings unless ended earlier by the mercy rule. This rule is in place to promote fair play and ensure that teams have adequate time to compete. The concept of a "complete game" is primarily concerned with the length and structure of the game, setting the seven-inning standard as the minimum for a game to be considered fully played.

The mercy rule can result in a game ending before seven innings, but it only applies when one team has a significant lead that makes it clear the other team is unlikely to win, ensuring that games remain competitive without becoming excessively lopsided. Thus, while a game can indeed end early due to the mercy rule, the fundamental requirement is that it spans at least seven innings for it to be classified as complete in normal circumstances.