They require the target to be at 100 gauge and when used, they allow for temporary changes to portrait, sprite, and name, while applying a buff. Pets can use them as well. It's necessary to set the name, sprite, and portrait, after changing for the first time, as it can't be done beforehand. Afterwards, that information will be saved. Using alpha, beta, delta, or gamma shift cores gives Form Shift hex (though the effect of each respective shift core is different) while omega shift core gives Final Shift hex.