Inversion

Much of the game is played like a classic third-person shooter with different weapons, cover-based movement, and different teams of AI-controlled allies that provide assistance but cannot be controlled directly. The game's distinct feature is the manipulation of gravity. The Lutadore have mastered this technology and early on the game Russel also gets access to it. The gravlink device allows him to manipulate gravity to his advantage.

The gravlink can be used to lift obstacles, objects and opponents, and to grab objects and hurl them at the enemy. The technology can also be used to lift opponents from their covered position. Later in the game the gravlink becomes stronger and it can be used to pin enemies to the ground or to lift objects to construct a makeshift cover position.

The manipulation of gravity is not always possible, as it only applies to certain items and not all of the environment can be transformed. When the entire environment's gravity is shifted, the Lutadore alter it, rotating it 90 degrees or reversing it 180 degrees. This changes Russel's fighting position and requires him to adapt his tactics.

Multiplayer includes a four-player cooperative mode called Survival, where players need to work together against computer-controlled opponents and progress against a time limit. Time is extended by completing the events before it runs out. Other multiplayer modes include Hourglass, Gravity Slaughter, and King of Gravity, which offer different gameplay experiences.