Heat is a mechanic for Bounty Hunter combat styles (Powertech and Mercenary) that prevents them from spamming skills. If heat is too high they will be locked out. It reverts towards zero out of combat.
Some examples of skills that build up heat or deplete ammo are:
- Rocket Punch
- Flame Sweep
- Flame Burst
- Searing Wave.
Heat can be slowed down by some abilities such as Vent Heat.
It is the counterpart to the Energy Cells mechanic for Troopers. For example, Ion Pulse and Stockstrike both use Energy Cells, and Recharge Cells contrasts to Vent Heat. However, energy cells instead regenerate up to maximum outside of combat.