Need for Speed: Shift is the thirteenth installment of the racing video game franchise Need for Speed. It was developed by Slightly Mad Studios in conjunction with EA Bright Light and published by Electronic Arts for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, Android, iOS, Symbian, Windows Mobile, MeeGo and J2ME in 2009.

Shift's gameplay focuses on simulation, rather than the arcade racing of previous titles. Shift was followed by a sequel, Shift 2: Unleashed, in 2011.[4]

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, Need for Speed: ProStreet. 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 Brands Hatch racecourse to determine his or her 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.

G-force 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 Porsche Unleashed.