The climax of "The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell occurs when Rainsford is being hunted by Zaroff and his pack of hounds. This is a pivotal moment in the story, as it marks the turning point in Rainsfords character development. From a confident and skilled hunter at the beginning of the story, Rainsford is reduced to a desperate and vulnerable prey, forced to fight for his survival against a skilled and sadistic opponent. The climax also serves to resolve the conflict between the two characters, with Rainsford ultimately emerging as the victor.