Shape Shifter: Formations is an action twin-stick shooter with rogue-lite elements, where you must destroy hordes of geometric enemies alone or with a friend. Select your ship and combine a large variety of weapons, abilities and infinitely stacking upgrades to craft your own unique build.
Players praise the engaging and satisfying gameplay loop, describing how the combination of twin-stick shooter gameplay and rogue-lite elements creates an addictive and replayable experience. Reviewers highlight how the constantly evolving gameplay and the drive to craft more powerful builds keep them coming back for "one more run."
Reviewers consistently praise the wide variety of ships, weapons, and ability upgrades, explaining how the progression system's unlocks of new options through challenges and meta-progression facilitates the creation of unique builds. Players emphasize how this depth of build customization is a major draw.
Reviewers praise the precision of the twin-stick shooting mechanics, noting that the movement and aiming feel "snappy" and intuitive, contributing to an overall polished and satisfying gameplay experience.
While the game is described as challenging, especially at higher difficulty levels, reviewers appreciate that the difficulty curve feels fair and rewarding. Players explain that the game punishes both poor item selection and real-time play, requiring a combination of strategic thinking and skilled execution to succeed.
Reviewers praise the game's boss encounters, highlighting how the bosses have unique attack patterns that require careful dodge and counter-play, adding an extra layer of challenge and strategy to the gameplay.