The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Players guide SpongeBob through stages inspired by the Atlantis story, moving across platforms, avoiding hazards, defeating enemies, and collecting items while working toward the stage exit.

Stages are presented as a linear adventure with environmental obstacles and encounters along the route. Progression comes from completing levels and advancing through the story rather than from a large upgrade system. The Game Boy Advance version is a single-player experience.

Study each stage before committing to a jump, especially where enemies and hazards are placed close together.

• Collect items when the route is safe, but prioritize survival over optional pickups.
• Use a cautious pace near platform edges and keep track of the next safe landing.
• Learn enemy movement patterns instead of attacking immediately in confined spaces.