Titanfall is a first-person multiplayer shooter for up to twelve players simultaneously. Set on a war-torn planet with two factions (Interstellar Manufacturing Corporation (IMC) and the Militia), it features battles between pilots on foot or boarding large mech-style Titans.
The game is fast-paced, with pilots able to wall jump and link jumps in a parkour style using a jet-boosted belt. Players start by choosing a pilot type and can choose from various weapons such as assault rifles, SMGs, shotguns, sniper rifles, and smart pistols.
When a Titan drops down from the sky, a pilot can board it, offering completely different movement options. The pilot's double jump is replaced by a dash, while a Titan cannot jump, crouch, or seek cover. A Titan has its own unique weapons and abilities, such as the vortex blocker, and can be ejected at any time when under attack.
The game features burn cards for temporary power-ups, AI-controlled minions with different types, and a persistent experience system that allows pilots to level up. This influences their loadouts prior to each match, including primary weapons, anti-Titan weapons, sidearms, tactical abilities, and kits with specific abilities.