Players take on the role of an adventurer in Poppy Dungeons, navigating through procedurally generated levels in search of treasure. The game involves controlling a character that can move, jump, and fight off enemies that appear on the stage.
The core mechanic is the game's emphasis on enemy combat and environmental interaction, as players will need to use their wits and reflexes to survive. Enemies are arrayed on platforms and in spatial relationships above and below the player's position. The game's layout and enemy placement vary with each run.
Goals include exploring levels, defeating enemies, and progressing to the next stage. The game is designed to be challenging and punishing, with attempts to survive as long as possible. Runs can be played in the browser without download or registration.