How important were catapults in winning battles?

Catapults were crucial in ancient and medieval warfare, significantly impacting the outcome of battles by allowing armies to breach fortified positions and disrupt enemy formations from a distance. Their ability to hurl projectiles, such as stones or incendiaries, made them effective for siege warfare, forcing defenders to surrender or weakening their morale. Additionally, catapults could inflict damage on troops and resources, shifting the balance of power in favor of the attacking forces. Overall, their strategic use often determined the success or failure of military campaigns.