The gameplay will revolve around a device, known as the TMD (Time Manipulation Device). It will be able to move a single object through the spectrum of time. It will be utilized both in classic FPS-style combat as a weapon and in Half-Life style puzzle solving. For instance, using the TMD's "rewind" function on a human opponent will send them into a "placental" state where they revert to an almost amoebic state before dying slowly. Examples of the device being used in puzzles involve sending a lock forward in time to watch it rust and crumble away, sending a broken bridge backwards to watch it return to a usable state, and sending a tree trunk forwards while standing on it as it grows to reach higher areas.

The TMD has four Announced functions. A Rewind, Forward, Stasis, and a pulse type function. All these functions can be upgraded to where the rewind, forward, and stasis have an almost instantaneous effect. The upgraded pulse function has more range and stronger effect. Stasis and Pulse used together create an effect reminiscent of Half Life's Gravity Gun. In an Example, an enemy may throw a grenade which you can "catch" with the stasis command; you may hold this grenade indefinitely as all time around it is frozen and the grenade will not detonate. Then using pulse you may fire the grenade back at the enemy who threw it.

Raven announced in their interview by GameInformer that the player will not have regenerating health such as shields, and will instead have a life bar. Raven believes that this will increase exploration for the game and not create a rushed experience.