Need for Speed: Shift is the thirteenth installment of the franchise . It was developed by in conjunction with and published by for , , , , , , , , and in 2009.
Shift's gameplay focuses on , rather than the of previous titles. Shift was followed by a sequel, , in 2011.
On May 31, 2021, EA announced that the game would no longer be available for purchase in any online stores.
Aimed at a hardcore gamer-style audience, Shift reverts to the touring-car simulation style of its 2007 predecessor, . Although the gameplay of these two titles are similar, Shift recreates car handling much more realistically than its predecessor, and does not contain a story. Upon starting the career mode, the player performs two laps around the racecourse to determine their skill. Once completed, the player is welcomed to the 'NFS Live World Series', and must earn stars in races to earn money, and unlock new races and tiers.
plays an important role in the game, as it affects both the player and the AI. The in-car view also returns, making its first appearance in a Need for Speed game since . The in-car view is highly detailed, and it is possible to see the driver changing gears and moving his head to get a better view of the mirror. The crashes affect the player's visuals. While crashing, there is a temporary blur on screen. The sound aspects have detailed car crash sound, as well as a sharp gasp of breath from the driver before a collision
