Burst Movement Option

A Burst Movement Option is an Alternative Movement Option defined by a single discrete action resulting in a sudden burst of speed in a single direction that is not strictly vertical. Burst Movement may be referred to as a Dash, Airdash, roll, dodge, or dive. Burst Movement may be used to precisely maneuver the player character (especially in mid-air), avoid attacks or obstacles, or quickly approach something or someone.

Many examples of Burst Movement Options have Invincibility, which affects its use. In terms of limitations, Burst Movement Options may exhibit Endlag, be subject to Cooldowns, or cost a resource, such as stamina (see Resource-Dependent Movement Option). Burst Movement is typically short and monodirectional, although some may be chained, and some have methods (often Advanced Movement Techniques) to carry momentum. Some Burst Movement Options require specific environmental features to perform (see Context-Sensitive Movement Option), especially those connected to tools like Grappling Hooks.

Examples

Hades – Features a Dash with Invincibility which is used to avoid attacks and rush towards enemies. Dashes can be chained, and the number of chains allowed can be upgraded. The Dash can be augmented by upgrades that give it damage, turning it into a Rushing Attack. The game’s sequel features a similar dash which transitions into a Sprint.

Nuclear Throne – Playable character Fish can roll, which is used to avoid attacks.

Ultrakill – Features an Airdash with Invincibility, tied to a stamina resource. Also features a Grappling Hook that can pull the player character directly to points, and various burst movement options in the form of Advanced Movement Techniques.

A Hat In Time – Features a dive which is mainly used in mid-air to jump further distances.

Guilty Gear Strive – Most characters have an Airdash used to approach, and all characters have a backdash with Invincibility to be used evasively.

Dark Souls series – Feature Dodge Rolls used to avoid attacks.

See Also

Sprint – Similar, but continuous instead of discrete

Jump, Double Jump, and Stomp – Similar, but strictly vertical

Teleport – Some overlap, although teleporting can serve other purposes

Rushing Attack – Subtype which is also an Attack

Dash and Air Dash – Subtypes

Wavedash – Subtype that is also an Advanced Movement Option

Dodge Roll – Subtype