Aloft has just reached the milestone of 300k wishlists on Steam, and Astrolabe Interactive announced major changes to its stamina system. Gliding is a central feature of the game, but the stamina system often limited player ability to fully enjoy it. That’s why the developers have replaced stamina with a more engaging momentum mechanic.

Momentum is tracked by a meter located just below your health bar. You start with three charges, but with the right combination of gear, food, and conditions, you can build up to five charges. This new mechanic can be accumulated and used not only for gliding but also for powerful actions in combat, healing, and more. Each action typically requires a full charge, and any partially filled charges will gradually drain if not used.

As you glide, you can accumulate charges in several ways. Regular gliding gradually builds momentum, but moving into an updraft gives you a quick surge. Flying close to an island’s surface also rapidly generates momentum, depending on how near you are to the ground. Charges are used for gliding boosts: the first boost is free, but each additional one consumes a full charge. Once the cooldown resets, the free boost becomes available again.

In combat, momentum can be gained through various actions as well. Striking with a charged attack, successfully blocking and landing hits, taking damage from enemies, clearing corruption flora, and targeting a node’s weak points all contribute to momentum. You can use a charge to enhance ground pounds, leaps, and upslash attacks, making them more powerful. After battles, charges can be used to gradually restore your health while sitting or lying down.

Conditions also effect momentum. The Hydrated state, which you get by drinking water or any liquid-based food, adds an extra charge. The Wet condition, when you navigate through water or get drenched in the rain, depletes your charges. By restoring the island’s ecosystem, you gain the Enthusiastic condition and a boost to your momentum.

You can also charge momentum by gathering resources with the appropriate tools: chopping trees and burnt stumps with an axe, harvesting wild plants with a sickle, and breaking large stones with a pickaxe.

Astrolabe Interactive has shared upcoming features for the newly implemented mechanics in Aloft: gliding with birds, repairing a skyship, and a new Zippy condition will earn momentum. Meanwhile, the Exhausted state will drain a charge.

Aloft is planning to enter Early Access later this fall.