For the first time in the series, players are able to play as characters other than Kirito. In addition, players are able to create their own custom characters, though the story mode will still progress as if the user was playing as Kirito[14]. Parties of up to three characters may be formed, up from two in the prior games. In keeping with being set in ALfheim Online, players are able to fly as well as walk on the ground. However, walking within dungeons is mandatory. There are two modes for flight, one being flying using the up button and the other hovering. While hovering, the player is able to do perform any action just like when walking, but players are unable to use use any skills while flying. The player can halt the flight mode via various ways: by pushing the left or right button, by pushing the square for a basic attack or triangle for dash attack, by pressing R1 and circle button for defend or just pressing the down button to fall or walK.Players can also target individual parts of an enemy's body as they see fit, resulting in different types of damage output. Additionally, some armored body parts make a clank sound when hit with a non-magical/physical attack.