Shift is a monochromatic platformer where the player controls subject 32763 through a number of testing environments. The game uses classic platformer elements as the character can only move around and jump. All areas consist of a single, non-scrolling screen with blocks, spikes and various elements. Each level has a single exit shown as a door. The subject needs to reach the door to complete a level.

The most import element of the game is shifting. By pressing the Shift key the game world is turned upside down and player is able to traverse in the opposite color. If the player moved around in a white part and there is room to shift, the entire area is changed as now the black parts can be accessed. This is used to solve puzzles where players collect keys to rotate barriers or avoids spikes. Messages appear on the screen by an operator who both helps and taunts the player. When dying, the level is immediately restarted.

The iPhone version contains the levels of the browser game along with 25 new environments. The Android version has 40 new levels next to the base game.

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