Shift Quantum is a puzzle platformer on Nintendo Switch in which you will need to manipulate your surroundings to survive. Learn more about it in our Shift Quantum review!

 

In Shift Quantum, you will need to shift around each stages surfaces so that you can make it to the exit – hence the name of the game. You can move around with the left analog stick and jump with the B button. You can grab onto something with the X button and push it around as needed, and can shift either with the A button or the L and R buttons. The game will present to you a short series of levels so that you can learn the game’s controls and get the hang of things.

You will slowly get introduced to new gameplay elements, so for the first set of levels you’ll only be running, jumping and shifting, to then be introduced to single space blocks to push and pull, to then use double space blocks that can be pushed only in one direction, to finding switches that make platforms appear when you step on them, and on which you must place a block to keep them activated.

Most stages have a collectible that looks like a set of floating particles, so if you want to 100% a game, you will need to find a way to collect all of them while you also search for the best path to the exit. At first there will always be a clear path to your goal, but as you progress further and further into the game you will start to find deadly hazards such as the pointy spikes that can instantly kill you, so you’ll need to pay attention to where you shift so that you don’t end up in a predicament.

Shift Quantum is a fun puzzle platformer with a minimalist black and white look that works since it allows you to focus on the puzzles without being distracted by any unnecessary “oomph.” Other than a few instances in which the framerate dipped when playing in Portable or Tabletop mode, the game runs great and is easy to understand and enjoy.

Disclaimer
This Shift Quantum review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by Red Panda Interactive.