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* ''VideoGame/DragonBallFighterZ'': Every character can make use of a horizontal air dash, by double tapping the respective direction in the air. Some characters can get an additional air dash. Frieza gets one upon becoming [[GoldenSuperMode Golden Frieza]], Gohan(Adult) gets one after hitting Potential Unleashed level 3, and [[FusionDance SSJ4 Gogeta]] gets one by default.
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* In the ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' series, some characters have specials moves (most of the time their up or side specials) that not only propel themselves forward but can all be used in the air. Some such as Fox, Pikachu, Captain Falcon, Ike, Squirtle, Charizard and Banjo/Kazooie have dash-like ''attacks'' that can be used as a recovery, in order to get back onto the stage.
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* In the ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' series, some characters have specials moves (most of the time their up or side specials) that not only propel themselves forward but can all be used in both on the air. ground and midair. Some such as Fox, Pikachu, Captain Falcon, Ike, Squirtle, Charizard and Banjo/Kazooie Banjo-Kazooie have dash-like ''attacks'' that can be used as a recovery, in order to get back onto the stage.
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* ''VideoGame/{{Blazblue}}'': Similar to its predecessor ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'', air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps.
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* ''VideoGame/{{Blazblue}}'': ''VideoGame/BlazBlue'': Similar to its predecessor ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'', air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps.
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* ''VideoGame/MightyNo9'': The game's titular protagonist Beck as well as RAY possess the ability to dash midair multiple multiple as along as they are airborne, and they also can quickly descent to the ground with the Dive Dash maneuver but they won't have any control until they have landed. The Dive Dash maneuver, however, can be used offensively when up close to enemies while in a position to dish out damage. Call can also dash in midair too by using a Patch plugged into her back but she lacks the Dive Dash ability that Beck and RAY are capable of.
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* ''VideoGame/MegaManX'': Starting with ''VideoGame/MegaManX2'', X's legs can get upgraded to allow him to use their propulsion system to dash in the air when he finds a specific capsule in a level. The propulsion that allows him to air dash also allows him to DoubleJump, so in most games he can only use one of the two before landing.
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* ''VideoGame/MegaManX'': Starting with ''VideoGame/MegaManX2'', X's legs can get upgraded to allow him to use their propulsion system to dash in the air when he finds a specific capsule in a level. The propulsion that allows him to air dash also allows him to DoubleJump, so in most games he can only use one of the two before landing. Zero can get a similar ability in some games.
* ''VideoGame/MegaManZX'': [[BlowYouAway Model]] [[ShockAndAwe H]] provides this thanks to its jet boosters and not only boosts left and right, it can also boost upwards which can serve as an effective ''triple'' jump when combined with the DoubleJump.
* ''VideoGame/MegaManZX'': [[BlowYouAway Model]] [[ShockAndAwe H]] provides this thanks to its jet boosters and not only boosts left and right, it can also boost upwards which can serve as an effective ''triple'' jump when combined with the DoubleJump.
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* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'' features the Mothwing Cloak, which allows the Knight to dash in whichever direction they're facing. This can be upgraded into the Shade Cloak to dash through both enemy attacks and Shade gates that can't be bypassed otherwise.
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* ''Franchise/KingdomHearts'': The majority of games have the Air Slide ability (named Quick Run in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsII''), which grants a burst of speed while in midair, allowing the user to propel themselves forward.
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* ''Franchise/KingdomHearts'': The majority of games have the Air Slide ability (named Quick Run ability[[note]]while it first appeared in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsII''), ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsII'', it was called "Quick Run" and was more of a grounded dash[[/note]], which grants a burst of speed while in midair, allowing the user to propel themselves forward.
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* ''Franchise/TheKingOfFighters'':
** In ''Maximum Impact 2'', Luise Meyrink can dash forwards or backwards in the air. In addition, she can also side-step in the air by tapping up or down twice.
** New protagonist Shun'ei can dash in the air using his Thruster Vision special move.
** In ''Maximum Impact 2'', Luise Meyrink can dash forwards or backwards in the air. In addition, she can also side-step in the air by tapping up or down twice.
** New protagonist Shun'ei can dash in the air using his Thruster Vision special move.
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In real life, people can't magically propel themselves forward through the air as if they were bounding off an invincible wall. In the realm of fiction though, especially in VideoGames, this is a common and effective form of movement.
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In real life, people can't magically propel themselves forward through the air as if they were bounding off an invincible invisible wall. In the realm of fiction though, especially in VideoGames, this is a common and effective form of movement.
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[[folder:Metroidvanias]]
* In ''VideoGame/MetroidDread'', one of the Aeion Abilities that Samus obtains is the Flash Shift, a move that lets her instantly warp forwards or backwards up to three times in a row. This can be used on the ground, but is just as effective in the air, allowing Samus to cross very wide gaps.
[[/folder]]
* In ''VideoGame/MetroidDread'', one of the Aeion Abilities that Samus obtains is the Flash Shift, a move that lets her instantly warp forwards or backwards up to three times in a row. This can be used on the ground, but is just as effective in the air, allowing Samus to cross very wide gaps.
[[/folder]]
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* The Venom Dash from ''VideoGame/SpiderManMilesMorales'' can be used while web-swinging across the skyline to launch Miles forward in the air, building up more mid-air speed even if you've flung yourself into an area with nothing to web onto.
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** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry3'': Dante's ''Trickster'' style grants him the ability to perform a dash in the air. This is manifested as a red, circular incantation that he bounces off of.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero's devil breaker, Gerbera, can fire a concussive blast that propels him through the air, making this a prime tool for maneuvering around enemies.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero's devil breaker, Gerbera, can fire a concussive blast that propels him through the air, making this a prime tool for maneuvering around enemies.
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** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry3'': From ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry3DantesAwakening'' onward, Dante's ''Trickster'' style Trickster Style grants him the ability to perform a dash in the air. This is manifested as a red, circular incantation that he bounces off of.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero'sdevil breaker, Gerbera, Gerbera Devil Breaker can fire a concussive blast that propels him through the air, making this a prime tool for maneuvering around enemies.enemies.
** ''VideoGame/DMCDevilMayCry'': Dante can perform an airborne dash using his Angelic powers.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero's
** ''VideoGame/DMCDevilMayCry'': Dante can perform an airborne dash using his Angelic powers.
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* In ''VideoGame/DissidiaFinalFantasy'', air dashing is the most common method of movement. By default, you dash towards the opponent, and it can be modified to make it dash faster in any direction but without vertical movement or dash away from the opponent.
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* The TropeCodifier for this mechanic in fighting games is widely considered to be the ''VideoGame/{{Darkstalkers}}'' series; more specifically the character Lord Raptor who was the only character in the first game to have an air dash. Later entries in the series would add more characters with air dashes: Hsien-ko, whose dash was functionally very similar to Lord Raptor, Q-Bee, whose air dash could home in on the opponent, and Jedah Dohma, whose air dash doubled as a direct attack.
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* The TropeCodifier for this mechanic in fighting games is widely considered to be the ''VideoGame/{{Darkstalkers}}'' series; more specifically the character Lord Raptor who was is the only character in the first game to have an air dash. Later entries in the series would add more characters with air dashes: Hsien-ko, whose dash was is functionally very similar to Lord Raptor, Q-Bee, whose air dash could can home in on the opponent, and Jedah Dohma, whose air dash doubled doubles as a direct attack.
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%%* ''VideoGame/{{Darkstalkers}}''
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* ''VideoGame/StreetFighter'': Akuma's "Ashura Senku"[[note]]translates roughly to "Asura Air Flash"[[/note]] lets him dash forward in the air, giving him greater mobility than many other fighters. He's also completely intangible during the duration of the move, though he does need to be careful about where he lands so his opponents can't attack him once it ends. Evil Ryu and his successor Kage can also use this ability.
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* ''VideoGame/StreetFighter'': ''Franchise/StreetFighter'': Akuma's "Ashura Senku"[[note]]translates roughly to "Asura Air Flash"[[/note]] lets him dash forward in the air, giving him greater mobility than many other fighters. He's also completely intangible during the duration of the move, though he does need to be careful about where he lands so his opponents can't attack him once it ends. Evil Ryu and his successor Kage can also use this ability.
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* ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt'': Gunvolt can dash mid-air using EP if he has the Ring gear that grants him one. Most of them are mutually exclusive to [[DoubleJump Double Jumping]], and better gear reduces the amount of EP used for air dashing.
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* ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt'': ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt'':
** Gunvolt can dash mid-air using EP if he has the Ring gear that grants him one. Most of them are mutually exclusive to [[DoubleJump Double Jumping]], and better gear reduces the amount of EP used for air dashing.
** Gunvolt can dash mid-air using EP if he has the Ring gear that grants him one. Most of them are mutually exclusive to [[DoubleJump Double Jumping]], and better gear reduces the amount of EP used for air dashing.
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* ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt'': Gunvolt can dash mid-air using EP if he has the Ring gear that grants him one. Most of them are mutually exclusive to [[DoubleJump Double Jumping]], and better gear reduces the amount of EP used for air dashing.
** Copen in ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt2'' has a playstyle built around dashing. He stores Bullit Dashes in stocks, which can be used dash sideways or diagonally a great distance, and refreshes a stock when he collides with a wall or enemy. Most of his damage comes from dashing into enemies to tag them and shooting them, and he builds combo points by killing multiple enemies without landing.
** Copen in ''VideoGame/AzureStrikerGunvolt2'' has a playstyle built around dashing. He stores Bullit Dashes in stocks, which can be used dash sideways or diagonally a great distance, and refreshes a stock when he collides with a wall or enemy. Most of his damage comes from dashing into enemies to tag them and shooting them, and he builds combo points by killing multiple enemies without landing.
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* ''VideoGame/GatoRoboto'': One of the mechsuit upgrades is a dash module, propelling it a few meters forward.
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* ''VideoGame/JediKnightJediAcademy'': Once you progress far enough in the story for your [[InASingleBound Force Jump]] and [[SuperSpeed Force Speed]] abilities to be maxed out, it is possible to easily traverse the ''VideoGame/DarkForcesSaga'''s famously huge maps, by combining the two in the form of a long-jump. It can only be done from solid ground, however.
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* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which allows them to phase through enemies with the dash, and with the Dashmaster and Sharp Shadow Charms which enables downwards air-dashing and the ability to damage enemies that are dashed through, respectively.
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* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which allows them to phase through enemies with the dash, and with the Dashmaster and Sharp Shadow Charms which enables enable downwards air-dashing and the ability to damage enemies that are dashed through, respectively.
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* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which deals damage on dash, and with the Dashmaster Charm which enables a downwards air-dash.
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* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which deals damage on allows them to phase through enemies with the dash, and with the Dashmaster Charm and Sharp Shadow Charms which enables a downwards air-dash.air-dashing and the ability to damage enemies that are dashed through, respectively.
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* VideoGame/TheIncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: Hulk can learn how to perform an air dash, and eventually upgrade it to go further and gain the ability to dash multiple times in a single jump.
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* VideoGame/TheIncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: ''VideoGame/TheIncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction'': Hulk can learn how to perform an air dash, and eventually upgrade it to go further and gain the ability to dash multiple times in a single jump.
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* VideoGame/IncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: Hulk can learn how to perform an air dash, and eventually upgrade it to go further and gain the ability to dash multiple times in a single jump.
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* VideoGame/IncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: VideoGame/TheIncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: Hulk can learn how to perform an air dash, and eventually upgrade it to go further and gain the ability to dash multiple times in a single jump.
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[[folder:Wide Open Sandboxes]]
* VideoGame/IncredibleHulkUltimateDestruction: Hulk can learn how to perform an air dash, and eventually upgrade it to go further and gain the ability to dash multiple times in a single jump.
[[/folder]]
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* VideoGame/SuperMario: In many of Mario's 3D outings, he can perform a dive maneuver in the air by double clicking the crouch command, effectively functioning as an air dash. This greatly improves his ability to reach far-off platforms and can synergize with the respective mechanics of each game, like how in VideoGame/SuperMarioOdyssey the dive can be combined with Mario's hat toss to bounce up and gain more vertical ground.
* VideoGame/VibrantVenture: This happens to be one of the two abilities exclusive to Azura. She achieves this through her water powers, using them to propel herself in midair, in addition to taking out enemies and clearing obstacles.
* VideoGame/VibrantVenture: This happens to be one of the two abilities exclusive to Azura. She achieves this through her water powers, using them to propel herself in midair, in addition to taking out enemies and clearing obstacles.
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* VideoGame/SuperMario: ''VideoGame/SuperMario'': In many of Mario's 3D outings, he can perform a dive maneuver in the air by double clicking the crouch command, effectively functioning as an air dash. This greatly improves his ability to reach far-off platforms and can synergize with the respective mechanics of each game, like how in VideoGame/SuperMarioOdyssey the dive can be combined with Mario's hat toss to bounce up and gain more vertical ground.
*VideoGame/VibrantVenture: ''VideoGame/VibrantVenture'': This happens to be one of the two abilities exclusive to Azura. She achieves this through her water powers, using them to propel herself in midair, in addition to taking out enemies and clearing obstacles.
*
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* VideoGame/VibrantVenture: This happens to be one of the two abilities exclusive to Azura. She achieves this through her water powers, using them to propel herself in midair, in addition to taking out enemies and clearing obstacles.
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* ''VideoGame/TheForceUnleashed'' and its sequel, which are about playing as a exaggeratedly powerful [[BastardUnderstudy Sith Apprentice]] Starkiller who [[HeelFaceTurn turns good]], often requires you to use The Force to do this for platforming, and it's combined with other abilities for {{Combos}}.
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!![[center:Indices: FightingGameTropes, VideoGamePhysics, VideogameEffectsAndSpells]]
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Created from YKTTW
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[[caption-width-right:350:[[VideoGame/SonicColors https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sonicdash.png]]]]
In real life, people can't magically propel themselves forward through the air as if they were bounding off an invincible wall. In the realm of fiction though, especially in VideoGames, this is a common and effective form of movement.
Air-dashing is a unique movement option from more basic actions like running and jumping. It grants an added boost of horizontal or lateral movement which can have a number of useful applications either as a traversal mechanic or a power in a story.
Many platforming heroes use this as a tool to traverse the game world and reach objectives. 3D games may be more limited with this ability since with the exception of jumping, most movement is lateral, making it difficult to precisely aim a dash across a three-hundred-and-sixty degree radius. 2D platformers meanwhile have the benefit/constraint of a flat plane, which gives the player a full radius of directions to dash in.
Air-dashing is a common ability in many 2D fighting games, some mainstream examples being the works of Creator/ArcSystemWorks, Creator/{{Capcom}} and French Bread[[note]]creators of Melty Blood and Under Night In-Birth[[/note]]. Air dashing gives characters another option for advancing towards an opponent and be applied in all sorts of mix-ups[[note]]The act of using a variety of attacks or maneuvers that require specific defensive options to counter[[/note]] or be used to cross over an opponent to attack from behind.
How an air dash actually happens is a whole other question. It may be the result of magic or superpowers that let a character bound across the air. Technological characters like robots might have thrusters that perform a similar function. Other times it could just be pure cartoon physics at work.
This trope can overlap with offensive abilities like DashAttack, but for the most part is limited to being purely for mobility rather than attacking.
A sub-trope of VideogameDashing.
Compare to FlashStep, DoubleJump, and NotQuiteFlight.
Contrast to RocketJump.
----
[[foldercontrol]]
!!Video Game Examples
[[folder:Action Games]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Control}}'': One use of the Evade power, which is all about high-speed burst movement. Used in the air to move forward, in mid-air, with no loss of height. Can be chained which causes a small drop during the gap between uses.
* ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry''
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry3'': Dante's ''Trickster'' style grants him the ability to perform a dash in the air. This is manifested as a red, circular incantation that he bounces off of.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero's devil breaker, Gerbera, can fire a concussive blast that propels him through the air, making this a prime tool for maneuvering around enemies.
* ''VideoGame/DynastyWarriors'': ''9'' includes this maneuver, referred to in-game as somersault, presumably because of [[SpectacularSpinning the spinning]] a character performs when doing it. The somersault allows for the player's officer to move into or away from combat quickly, and is useful for moving across structures in the game's open world. The somersault can also become a WallJump if used close enough to a wall. There is also an accessory that can be equipped that allows for multiple somersaults to be performed in succession.
* ''VideoGame/GenshinImpact'': Xiao's Elemental Skill: Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, allows him to lunge forward at enemies twice to deal [[BlowYouAway Anemo]] damage. He can also use it mid-air to increase his air time while traversing the overworld.
* ''Franchise/KingdomHearts'': The majority of games have the Air Slide ability (named Quick Run in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsII''), which grants a burst of speed while in midair, allowing the user to propel themselves forward.
** ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsBirthBySleep'' includes Ice Slide, which is functionally the same as Air Slide but with the added ability of coating the user in ice that deals damage to enemies.
** [[DownplayedTrope Downplayed]] with the Dash and Surge abilities in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsBirthBySleep''. Air Dash, Fire Dash, Dark Haze, Fire Surge, Barrier Surge and Thunder Surge are all attacks that coat the user in the respective element as they charge forward to strike an enemy. Though intended as an offensive action, these actions can also be used out of combat while in midair as long-range air dashes.
* ''VideoGame/MonsterHunter'':
** The Insect Glaive introduced in ''Monster Hunter 4'' allows hunters to propel in the air for a short bit and use aerial attacks to knock down monsters.
** ''VideoGame/MonsterHunterRise'': The Insect Glaive's aerial capacities are boosted, with certain arts allowing hunters to boost themselves in the air multiple times over and remain there simply by hitting their targets. Also the Gunlance gets a new technique that allows Hunters to traverse the map by using the weapon's firing exhaust as a rocket boost in the air.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Fighting Games]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Blazblue}}'': Similar to its predecessor ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'', air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps.
%%* ''VideoGame/{{Darkstalkers}}''
* ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'': Air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps. Along with allowing the aerial attack follow-ups, air dashing is another method for building the tension gauge, the series' resource for performing supers and special actions like Roman Cancels[[note]]placing an opponent in a suspended state, allowing for follow ups[[/note]].
* ''VideoGame/MarvelVsCapcom'': Several characters like Dante, Tron Bonne, and characters with {{Flight}} powers have access to an air dash. There's also an "8-way air dash" used by characters like Magneto and Captain Marvel which gives even more versatility in their movement.
* ''VideoGame/{{Skullgirls}}'': Many characters have access to an air-dash[[note]]Fillia, Ms. Fortune, Peacock, Valentine, Eliza, and Annie[[/note]], sometimes supplementing a DoubleJump. It's mainly applied to [[CloseRangeCombatant rushdown]], though [[LongRangeFighter zoners]] like Peacock also have one which improves her hit-and-run capabilities.
* ''VideoGame/StreetFighter'': Akuma's "Ashura Senku"[[note]]translates roughly to "Asura Air Flash"[[/note]] lets him dash forward in the air, giving him greater mobility than many other fighters. He's also completely intangible during the duration of the move, though he does need to be careful about where he lands so his opponents can't attack him once it ends. Evil Ryu and his successor Kage can also use this ability.
* ''VideoGame/ThemsFightinHerds'': Tianhuo can Air Dash forward or backwards while in midair. Justified as she uses her [[HotWings fiery wings]] to help propel her. Her Firecracker dashing attack can also be used while in midair.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:First-Person Shooter]]
* ''VideoGame/Bioshock2'': Subject Delta eventually obtains the "Drill Dash", an attack that makes him lunge hard through the air while swinging his drill weapon, dealing heavy damage to anyone in the way.
* ''VideoGame/DoomEternal'': The Doom Slayer's Dash ability propels him a short distance through the air and can be used twice before recharging. Perfect for getting face-to-face with any demon he's about tear apart.
* ''VideoGame/QuakeChampions'': Clutch has mid-air dashing as part of his "Hydraulic Dodging" passive ability. He performs this the same way as ground dodging, by pressing any direction key twice.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Platform Fighters]]
* In the ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' series, some characters have specials moves (most of the time their up or side specials) that not only propel themselves forward but can all be used in the air. Some such as Fox, Pikachu, Captain Falcon, Ike, Squirtle, Charizard and Banjo/Kazooie have dash-like ''attacks'' that can be used as a recovery, in order to get back onto the stage.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Platformers]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Chantelise}}'': Granted by the Winged Boots. Performing the regular Dash, but in the air, allows forward travel mid-air, with no loss of height. Can be chained which causes a small drop during the gap between uses.
* ''VideoGame/{{Celeste}}'': Madeline's signature mechanic is a multi-directional dash that functions as this trope when used in the air. The dash has to recharged by touching ground, preventing Madeline from using it infinitely. Though there is an in-game option to enable infinite dashes for players who want an easier start with grasping the game's mechanics.
* ''VideoGame/{{Cuphead}}'': Both Cuphead and Mugman have the ability to dash in midair, propelling themselves forward after a jump or fall. With the Smoke Bomb charm, they even gain temporary immunity while using it.
* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which deals damage on dash, and with the Dashmaster Charm which enables a downwards air-dash.
* ''VideoGame/MegaManX'': Starting with ''VideoGame/MegaManX2'', X's legs can get upgraded to allow him to use their propulsion system to dash in the air when he finds a specific capsule in a level. The propulsion that allows him to air dash also allows him to DoubleJump, so in most games he can only use one of the two before landing.
* ''VideoGame/RogueLegacy'': One of the first runes the player has access too, the Sprint Rune, allows the player to dash short distances in the air as well as on the ground.
* VideoGame/SuperMario: In many of Mario's 3D outings, he can perform a dive maneuver in the air by double clicking the crouch command, effectively functioning as an air dash. This greatly improves his ability to reach far-off platforms and can synergize with the respective mechanics of each game, like how in VideoGame/SuperMarioOdyssey the dive can be combined with Mario's hat toss to bounce up and gain more vertical ground.
[[/folder]]
!![[center:Indices: FightingGameTropes, VideoGamePhysics, VideogameEffectsAndSpells]]
In real life, people can't magically propel themselves forward through the air as if they were bounding off an invincible wall. In the realm of fiction though, especially in VideoGames, this is a common and effective form of movement.
Air-dashing is a unique movement option from more basic actions like running and jumping. It grants an added boost of horizontal or lateral movement which can have a number of useful applications either as a traversal mechanic or a power in a story.
Many platforming heroes use this as a tool to traverse the game world and reach objectives. 3D games may be more limited with this ability since with the exception of jumping, most movement is lateral, making it difficult to precisely aim a dash across a three-hundred-and-sixty degree radius. 2D platformers meanwhile have the benefit/constraint of a flat plane, which gives the player a full radius of directions to dash in.
Air-dashing is a common ability in many 2D fighting games, some mainstream examples being the works of Creator/ArcSystemWorks, Creator/{{Capcom}} and French Bread[[note]]creators of Melty Blood and Under Night In-Birth[[/note]]. Air dashing gives characters another option for advancing towards an opponent and be applied in all sorts of mix-ups[[note]]The act of using a variety of attacks or maneuvers that require specific defensive options to counter[[/note]] or be used to cross over an opponent to attack from behind.
How an air dash actually happens is a whole other question. It may be the result of magic or superpowers that let a character bound across the air. Technological characters like robots might have thrusters that perform a similar function. Other times it could just be pure cartoon physics at work.
This trope can overlap with offensive abilities like DashAttack, but for the most part is limited to being purely for mobility rather than attacking.
A sub-trope of VideogameDashing.
Compare to FlashStep, DoubleJump, and NotQuiteFlight.
Contrast to RocketJump.
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!!Video Game Examples
[[folder:Action Games]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Control}}'': One use of the Evade power, which is all about high-speed burst movement. Used in the air to move forward, in mid-air, with no loss of height. Can be chained which causes a small drop during the gap between uses.
* ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry''
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry3'': Dante's ''Trickster'' style grants him the ability to perform a dash in the air. This is manifested as a red, circular incantation that he bounces off of.
** ''VideoGame/DevilMayCry5'': Nero's devil breaker, Gerbera, can fire a concussive blast that propels him through the air, making this a prime tool for maneuvering around enemies.
* ''VideoGame/DynastyWarriors'': ''9'' includes this maneuver, referred to in-game as somersault, presumably because of [[SpectacularSpinning the spinning]] a character performs when doing it. The somersault allows for the player's officer to move into or away from combat quickly, and is useful for moving across structures in the game's open world. The somersault can also become a WallJump if used close enough to a wall. There is also an accessory that can be equipped that allows for multiple somersaults to be performed in succession.
* ''VideoGame/GenshinImpact'': Xiao's Elemental Skill: Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, allows him to lunge forward at enemies twice to deal [[BlowYouAway Anemo]] damage. He can also use it mid-air to increase his air time while traversing the overworld.
* ''Franchise/KingdomHearts'': The majority of games have the Air Slide ability (named Quick Run in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsII''), which grants a burst of speed while in midair, allowing the user to propel themselves forward.
** ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsBirthBySleep'' includes Ice Slide, which is functionally the same as Air Slide but with the added ability of coating the user in ice that deals damage to enemies.
** [[DownplayedTrope Downplayed]] with the Dash and Surge abilities in ''VideoGame/KingdomHeartsBirthBySleep''. Air Dash, Fire Dash, Dark Haze, Fire Surge, Barrier Surge and Thunder Surge are all attacks that coat the user in the respective element as they charge forward to strike an enemy. Though intended as an offensive action, these actions can also be used out of combat while in midair as long-range air dashes.
* ''VideoGame/MonsterHunter'':
** The Insect Glaive introduced in ''Monster Hunter 4'' allows hunters to propel in the air for a short bit and use aerial attacks to knock down monsters.
** ''VideoGame/MonsterHunterRise'': The Insect Glaive's aerial capacities are boosted, with certain arts allowing hunters to boost themselves in the air multiple times over and remain there simply by hitting their targets. Also the Gunlance gets a new technique that allows Hunters to traverse the map by using the weapon's firing exhaust as a rocket boost in the air.
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[[folder:Fighting Games]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Blazblue}}'': Similar to its predecessor ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'', air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps.
%%* ''VideoGame/{{Darkstalkers}}''
* ''VideoGame/GuiltyGear'': Air dashing is a central mechanic to the series that most characters in the roster can perform. A variation called an "instant air dash" can be performed by inputting the command right as a character jumps. Along with allowing the aerial attack follow-ups, air dashing is another method for building the tension gauge, the series' resource for performing supers and special actions like Roman Cancels[[note]]placing an opponent in a suspended state, allowing for follow ups[[/note]].
* ''VideoGame/MarvelVsCapcom'': Several characters like Dante, Tron Bonne, and characters with {{Flight}} powers have access to an air dash. There's also an "8-way air dash" used by characters like Magneto and Captain Marvel which gives even more versatility in their movement.
* ''VideoGame/{{Skullgirls}}'': Many characters have access to an air-dash[[note]]Fillia, Ms. Fortune, Peacock, Valentine, Eliza, and Annie[[/note]], sometimes supplementing a DoubleJump. It's mainly applied to [[CloseRangeCombatant rushdown]], though [[LongRangeFighter zoners]] like Peacock also have one which improves her hit-and-run capabilities.
* ''VideoGame/StreetFighter'': Akuma's "Ashura Senku"[[note]]translates roughly to "Asura Air Flash"[[/note]] lets him dash forward in the air, giving him greater mobility than many other fighters. He's also completely intangible during the duration of the move, though he does need to be careful about where he lands so his opponents can't attack him once it ends. Evil Ryu and his successor Kage can also use this ability.
* ''VideoGame/ThemsFightinHerds'': Tianhuo can Air Dash forward or backwards while in midair. Justified as she uses her [[HotWings fiery wings]] to help propel her. Her Firecracker dashing attack can also be used while in midair.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:First-Person Shooter]]
* ''VideoGame/Bioshock2'': Subject Delta eventually obtains the "Drill Dash", an attack that makes him lunge hard through the air while swinging his drill weapon, dealing heavy damage to anyone in the way.
* ''VideoGame/DoomEternal'': The Doom Slayer's Dash ability propels him a short distance through the air and can be used twice before recharging. Perfect for getting face-to-face with any demon he's about tear apart.
* ''VideoGame/QuakeChampions'': Clutch has mid-air dashing as part of his "Hydraulic Dodging" passive ability. He performs this the same way as ground dodging, by pressing any direction key twice.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Platform Fighters]]
* In the ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' series, some characters have specials moves (most of the time their up or side specials) that not only propel themselves forward but can all be used in the air. Some such as Fox, Pikachu, Captain Falcon, Ike, Squirtle, Charizard and Banjo/Kazooie have dash-like ''attacks'' that can be used as a recovery, in order to get back onto the stage.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Platformers]]
* ''VideoGame/{{Chantelise}}'': Granted by the Winged Boots. Performing the regular Dash, but in the air, allows forward travel mid-air, with no loss of height. Can be chained which causes a small drop during the gap between uses.
* ''VideoGame/{{Celeste}}'': Madeline's signature mechanic is a multi-directional dash that functions as this trope when used in the air. The dash has to recharged by touching ground, preventing Madeline from using it infinitely. Though there is an in-game option to enable infinite dashes for players who want an easier start with grasping the game's mechanics.
* ''VideoGame/{{Cuphead}}'': Both Cuphead and Mugman have the ability to dash in midair, propelling themselves forward after a jump or fall. With the Smoke Bomb charm, they even gain temporary immunity while using it.
* ''VideoGame/HollowKnight'': The Mothwing Cloak lets the Knight air-dash in the direction they're facing. It can be upgraded into the "Shade Cloak" which deals damage on dash, and with the Dashmaster Charm which enables a downwards air-dash.
* ''VideoGame/MegaManX'': Starting with ''VideoGame/MegaManX2'', X's legs can get upgraded to allow him to use their propulsion system to dash in the air when he finds a specific capsule in a level. The propulsion that allows him to air dash also allows him to DoubleJump, so in most games he can only use one of the two before landing.
* ''VideoGame/RogueLegacy'': One of the first runes the player has access too, the Sprint Rune, allows the player to dash short distances in the air as well as on the ground.
* VideoGame/SuperMario: In many of Mario's 3D outings, he can perform a dive maneuver in the air by double clicking the crouch command, effectively functioning as an air dash. This greatly improves his ability to reach far-off platforms and can synergize with the respective mechanics of each game, like how in VideoGame/SuperMarioOdyssey the dive can be combined with Mario's hat toss to bounce up and gain more vertical ground.
[[/folder]]
!![[center:Indices: FightingGameTropes, VideoGamePhysics, VideogameEffectsAndSpells]]
