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The term that refers to an image or cutout used to shape a light in a way that enhances the interplay of light and shadow in a scene is known as a "cookie." This technique is commonly utilized in both 2D and 3D graphics to create patterns of light and shadow that add depth and visual interest to a rendered image.

Cookies are particularly valuable in simulating the effects of real-world light sources, such as the dappled light that comes through leaves in a forest. By projecting a cookie onto a light source, developers can control the distribution of light, creating a more dynamic and realistic environment. Using a cookie can accentuate certain areas, promote mood, and guide the viewer's eye within a composition.

In contrast, a texture generally refers to the visual detail applied to a 3D object’s surface, a shadow map is a technique used for rendering shadows in a scene, and a filter is used to alter the appearance of graphics or images in a broad sense. While each of these terms relates to the manipulation of visuals within game development, none fulfill the specific function of shaping light and shadow variations like a cookie does.