Flash Shift

The Flash Shift is an Aeion Ability in Metroid Dread. It allows Samus to travel a set distance forward or backward instantaneously, and can be used up to three times consecutively. While each use covers a relatively short distance, the speed with which it is executed is ideal for evading attacks that would otherwise be too fast to dodge, and it allows Samus to bypass pressure-sensitive Shutter Platforms. She acquires it from an upright Chozo Statue in Burenia. By pressing and holding down A on the Joy-Con, a Flash Shift can be charged and executed when a directional input is provided. This does not increase the distance traveled, however.

When Samus enters Elun and encounters her first Chozo Zombie, its X morphs behind her, prompting her to Flash Shift out of its way.

If Samus Flash Shifts toward an enemy, she stops right before making contact with it in order to avoid taking damage.

Before obtaining the Gravity Suit, the Flash Shift does not function underwater. She can also never use it in Morph Ball form.

Raven Beak also utilizes this ability in battle. He uses it twice to gain the upper hand against Samus and put her into a one-handed neck lift, but frequently also Flash Shifts in order to simply move faster.

Official data

Metroid Dread Report Volume 6

Flash Shift (Aeion Ability)

"Samus can travel a set distance—forward or backward, while on the ground or in the air—in an instant. This can be done consecutively up to three times. Handy for exploration and combat alike."

Nintendo tweets

Nintendo of America

"Samus has a number of abilities powered by Aeion that will make exploration and combat easier in #MetroidDread. Use Flash Shift to travel a set distance forward or backwards in an instant. You can also use it to quickly traverse areas or dodge enemy attacks."

Nintendo of Europe/UK

"As well as the Phantom Cloak, Samus can find other abilities powered by Aeion. Use Flash Shift to make exploring and evasion easier, and Pulse Radar to detect breakable walls in the surrounding area. #MetroidDread"

Metroid.nintendo.com

"A super-fast movement that lets Samus travel a set distance up to three times in a row. As it can be used on the ground and in the air, it’s handy for exploration and battle alike.

Samus Screen

FLASH SHIFT

A combat Aeion ability that allows Samus to instantly move forward or backward a set distance. With full Aeion, hold to prepare to Flash Shift. Next, tilt forward or backward to move instantly in that direction. Alternately, press while moving with . This ability can be used in midair as well. Samus can perform up to two additional Flash Shifts by holding down and tilting forward or backward immediately after the first Flash Shift. Using a Flash Shift will consume the full Aeion gauge. Additional Flash Shifts consume no further Aeion.

Loading screen tip

FLASH SHIFT

This ability allows you to instantly approach or retreat from enemies. It's particularly useful when battling bosses.

This ability has greater horizontal reach than a regular jump, meaning it also has its uses during exploration.

Trivia

• The ability is similar to the side special moves utilized by Fox, Falco, and Wolf in the Super Smash Bros. series.
  • On a similar note, Raven Beak's usage of the ability, particularly during the first encounter against him in Artaria, bears a slight resemblance to Ganondorf's Flame Choke side special from Brawl onward.
• Visual effects for the Flash Shift in Dread were done by Rafael Machó Alcaraz.

Gallery

The statue holding the Flash Shift's Item Cube.

Samus using the Flash Shift to dodge a Robot Chozo Soldier.

Raven Beak prepares a Flash Shift.

Raven Beak using it.

Raven Beak grabbing Samus after his Shift.