The game uses a top-down exploration view and a separate turn-based combat view. The party travels between locations, talks with inhabitants, searches containers, solves quests, and manages equipment. Combat involves movement, attacks, spells, psionic powers, item use, and tactical positioning.

Progression comes from completing quests, gaining experience, improving character abilities, and acquiring better equipment. The party can include created characters and recruited companions, while dialogue and exploration determine access to several objectives and locations.

Save in separate files before entering major areas, starting conversations, or triggering battles. Athas is unforgiving, so carry restorative supplies and avoid exhausting every spell or psionic power before reaching a safe location.

Use terrain and party formation during combat. Protect fragile spellcasters, focus attacks on isolated enemies, and check equipment and available abilities before difficult encounters. Explore thoroughly because useful items, companions, and quest solutions are often off the main path.