Amazon Quick App: Shift Platformer Game

Every once in a while, a game comes out with in an entirely new style never seen before. Today, we venture forth to the Amazon Appstore to look at one such example. Join us past the break for today’s Amazon Quick App, as we take a look at Shift Platformer Game by Handmark.

App Features (as per Amazon listing):

 

Our Thoughts

Shift is remarkably simple, but also astonishingly complex. Not counting the pause button, you are given four different controls—left, right, jump, and shift. Your goal is to reach the level exit using the aforementioned four controls. What makes this game unique is that fourth button—shift.

The shift buttons inverts your character, the level, and gravity itself. As you progress in the game, you will face several obstacles such as spikes, timers, moving spikes, and large gaps. All of these require extensive use of the title’s namesake. Rather than another mindless platformer, this one keeps you hooked because of the level of thinking involved in solving each puzzle.

Graphics are in the style of the old comic Spy vs. Spy, and spy-themed music is also appropriately fitting. While we noticed oddly inconsistent visual clarity on a 10-inch tablet, the visuals were sharp as can be on a smaller-screened phone.

 

Worth Your Time?

Definitely. This game will keep you entertained for quite a bit, and is well worth the $1.99 if you happen to miss the free app giveaway. This app is more than a simple platformer. Rather, its unique, gravity-bending nature rewards you after conquering a difficult level. Now one question remains. How exactly can we get the shift button in real life?