Quick naming note before anything else: the mode is officially called Tempus Trek. Plenty of players (and older guides) write “Tempest Trek,” but the in-game button and the official update notes both say Tempus. Same mode, same score chase.
Here’s how to get more out of every run: what the mode actually is, how its themed periods and score targets work, which pilots to bring, and the run habits that push your score higher. Everything is current as of the October 2026 update that added SP pilot Drakuku.
What Tempus Trek Is
Tempus Trek is Acecraft’s wave survival challenge. You fly into a run, clear wave after wave of enemies, pick Attachments as you go, and face bosses along the way. The further you push, the higher your score.
The mode runs in periods. Each new period brings themed stages and a fresh set of score targets, and hitting those targets is how you claim the rewards. The winter period that arrived in December 2025, for example, gave Tempus Trek a snowy new look with new themed stages.
- Where to find it: the Tempus Trek button sits in the row of mode buttons just above Start in the lobby, next to Nemeses’ Return.
- What you chase: score targets for the current period. Reach one, claim the reward, then push for the next.
- What changes: the stage theme each period, so the best pilot for one period is not always the best for the next.
Tempus Trek at a Glance
| Feature | How it works | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Wave based run with bosses | Damage that scales across a long run matters most |
| Periods | New themed stages each period | Check the theme before picking a pilot |
| Rewards | Score targets | Claim each target as you pass it |
| Attachments | Picked during the run | Build around a few strong picks |
| Support Pilot | Support Skill button works in this mode | Bring a 3 star support partner |
Picking Your Pilot
Every pilot belongs to one of four elements: Solaris, Sandstorm, Cyclone or Nimbus. Tempus Trek periods are themed, and players report that the period’s element ties into bonus stats, so matching your pilot to the active theme gives you an edge. (Pro tip: open the mode and read the period info before you queue, so you know which element is favored.)
- Match the period when you can. A leveled pilot of the right element is your best bet. If you only have one strong main, they can still carry, just with less help.
- Match your Wingman too. An Epic Wingman of the same element as your pilot gives +25% Base Attributes. Our element matching guide explains the full rule.
- Bring a Support Pilot. Once a pilot reaches 3 stars, the Support Pilot feature lets them back up your active pilot with a Support Skill, and that button works in Tempus Trek.
- Lean on proven picks. Pilots with long reach and steady damage shine in wave modes. Check the current Acecraft tier list for community picks.
Building a Run That Scores
Tempus Trek uses the same roguelike Attachment system as Adventure stages. Every pick shapes the run, and wave modes reward a focused build far more than a pile of random upgrades.
- Step 1, decide your damage core early. Grab one or two Attachments that clear crowds and keep stacking upgrades on those lines. Our Attachments guide covers which ones scale best.
- Step 2, add coverage. Once your core is online, pick up something that hits the sides of the screen, since later waves spawn from wider angles.
- Step 3, fix survivability last. Defensive picks matter when the bosses show up, but a run with no damage simply stalls.
- Step 4, save your Ultimate for bosses. Burning it on a regular wave wastes damage you will want when the boss arrives.
Oh, and stay disciplined. The run will keep offering shiny off build options, and each one dilutes your core. Your call, but depth usually beats width here.
Run Habits That Push Your Score
- Absorb pink projectiles constantly. Lift your finger off the screen and your plane stops, stops firing and soaks up pink shots, powering up your Stunt. Press down again to move and fire. The pink projectile absorption guide covers the timing.
- Treat early waves as setup. Your build is still coming together, so focus on clean pickups instead of rushing.
- Keep moving. Wave modes punish parking in a corner while your Attachments do the work.
- Learn the boss patterns. Bosses decide whether a run ends early. Our boss strategies guide breaks down how to read them.
- Claim targets as you hit them. Score rewards wait for you to collect them, so tap through after every run.
Make Tempus Trek part of your routine while a period is live. It fits neatly into the daily challenge loop alongside Realm Trial and Nemeses’ Return.
Acecraft Tempus Trek FAQ
Is it Tempus Trek or Tempest Trek?
The official name is Tempus Trek. “Tempest Trek” is a common misspelling used by players and some older guides.
How do Tempus Trek rewards work?
Each period has score targets. Reach a target during your runs and claim its reward, then push higher for the next tier.
Which pilot is best for Tempus Trek?
Your best bet is a strong pilot whose element matches the current period, paired with a same element Epic Wingman and a 3 star Support Pilot.
Can I use Support Pilots in Tempus Trek?
Yes. The Support Skill button works in Tempus Trek, so a pilot promoted to 3 stars can back up your active pilot during runs.
Final Tip: check the period theme, bring a matching pilot and Wingman, commit to a damage core, and absorb every pink shot you can. Do that and the score targets start falling one after another. Nailed it? Then you’re winning!
