Players guide Simon through a linear sequence of stages viewed from the side. Each stage contains platforms, traps, enemies, moving objects, hidden items, and a boss encounter, with a checkpoint or continuation structure typical of the era.

Simon can walk, crouch, jump, attack with his whip in multiple directions, and use collected sub-weapons. Candles provide hearts, weapon upgrades, food, money bags, and other items. Hearts fuel sub-weapons rather than restore health, and the whip can be upgraded by collecting power-ups.

The game includes normal stage progression and a password-based continuation system. Defeated bosses unlock the next area, while limited lives, health, and timed hazards make careful movement important.

Study enemy patterns before committing to jumps, and use the whip's directional control to attack from safe positions. Keep the whip upgraded whenever possible, since its longer range and stronger damage greatly improve survival.

Save hearts for sub-weapons that match the situation. Axe attacks are useful against enemies above Simon, while holy water can repeatedly stun many grounded targets. Break candles and inspect platforms for food, weapon upgrades, and hidden resources.

At bosses, prioritize learning movement patterns over dealing immediate damage. Use crouching, controlled jumps, and the full range of the whip instead of standing directly in front of attacks.