The game uses a first-person perspective. The main objective is to investigate Shadowgate and complete the trials associated with its four towers while uncovering routes through the castle and its surrounding locations.

Players move through interconnected areas, inspect objects, pick up and combine items, operate mechanisms, and solve contextual puzzles. Progress depends on examining the environment carefully and returning to earlier locations with newly acquired tools or information. The Nintendo 64 version presents the adventure as a continuous 3D exploration experience rather than a sequence of static screens.

Examine every suspicious object and keep track of items that appear to have a specific purpose. Many solutions depend on using an object in the correct location, so revisit earlier rooms after important discoveries.

Save before testing dangerous interactions or committing a hard-to-reverse action. If progress stops, review unopened containers, unusual scenery, and previously inaccessible paths rather than repeatedly trying the same item.