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About LinkShift
LinkShift is an abstract puzzle game with roguelite mechanics crafted by Tim Overvliet. Released on March 31, 2026, it runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac. The core idea is placing Nodes on a grid to build connection chains, using Upgrades and Master Nodes to tweak or disrupt the rules. The game’s minimalist visuals and strategic depth make it feel like a hybrid of match-3 and tactical planning. Single-player dominates, but split-screen co-op adds a competitive twist. Sessions are short and punchy, rewarding creative problem-solving. If you like high-risk, high-reward puzzles with a dash of chaos, this is your jam.
Gameplay
You start each round by dropping Nodes on a grid, aiming to link them into chains that score points. Every Node affects adjacent ones, so placement matters. Upgrades let you bend rules, like changing grid size or altering Node behaviors, while Master Nodes act as game-changers, breaking chains, swapping positions, or locking sections. The grid resets after each move, forcing you to adapt on the fly. A typical session lasts 10, 15 minutes, balancing planning and reactive play. Split-screen co-op pits two players against the same grid, racing to outmaneuver each other. Controls are snappy, with a focus on quick taps and real-time adjustments. The challenge lies in mastering the node interactions before the grid collapses.
What Players Think
PlayPile community ratings average 4.6/5, with 70% completing the game. Average playtime is 5.2 hours, and 85% report feeling "stimulated" or "frustrated" post-session. Achievements include 30 total trophies (68% completion rate), with "Chainbreaker" (create 100+ connections) being the hardest. Critics praise the "clever node dynamics" but note the learning curve, 30% of reviews mention initial confusion. Co-op gets high marks for fun, though 15% gripe about limited modes. One player wrote, "The Master Nodes add insane depth, but the tutorial needs a rewrite."
PlayPile's Take
LinkShift is a niche pick for puzzle fans who love tactical experimentation. At $19.99, it’s a low-risk buy, especially with 30 achievements to chase. The co-op mode is a standout, but solo play can feel repetitive after 5 hours. Don’t skip the Upgrades, they’re the game’s secret sauce. If you’re okay with a steep learning curve and enjoy thinking several moves ahead, this one’s worth your time. But casual gamers? Maybe pass.
Game Modes
Single player, Split screen
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