Each scene presents a self-contained puzzle area viewed from a side-on perspective. The objective is usually to manipulate objects, trigger events, and guide Fingus and Winkle toward the exit or the next location.

The two goblins have different behaviors: Fingus is cautious and dependable, while Winkle is stronger but more reckless. Players select a character, inspect the environment, pick up or use objects, and coordinate actions in the correct order. Progress is divided into sequential screens and chapters, with mistakes sometimes causing comic failures or requiring a restart.

Observe the entire screen before acting, since many puzzles depend on timing and on the order in which objects are used.

• Try Fingus first when an interaction requires care or restraint.
• Use Winkle for forceful actions, but expect his behavior to create hazards.
• If an action causes a fatal result, replay the scene and change only one step at a time.