The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Harry Jr. runs, jumps, climbs, swings, and attacks with his whip while moving through Mayan temples, jungles, caves, and other hazardous stages.

The main objective is to reach the end of each level, survive traps and enemies, and defeat the stage guardian. Players can collect health and power-ups, discover hidden areas, and use different attack abilities as the adventure progresses.

The SNES version is a single-player game with a sequence of themed levels. Progress depends on platforming precision, enemy timing, exploration, and learning the patterns of bosses and environmental obstacles.

Study enemy and trap patterns before committing to a jump. Keep moving through open areas, but slow down near collapsing platforms, spikes, and projectile hazards.

Search the edges of rooms and alternate routes for health and power-ups. Save stronger attacks for guardians, and use the whip from a safe distance whenever the terrain allows it.

• Approach bosses cautiously and learn their repeated attack cycles.
• Avoid rushing through unfamiliar screens; many hazards are positioned just beyond the visible foreground.
• Preserve health for the final sections of each stage.