Witchaven is played from a first-person perspective across maze-like fantasy levels. The main objective is to explore each area, find keys and useful items, defeat monsters, and reach the exit while managing health, armor, weapons, and magical resources.

Grondoval can use melee weapons, ranged weapons, spells, and environmental pickups. Progression comes from discovering stronger equipment and learning level layouts rather than from a conventional experience-and-level system. The DOS release is structured as a single-player campaign with no documented multiplayer mode.

Search every branch of a level for keys, weapons, armor, healing items, and spell resources before committing to the exit. Maze-like areas often reward careful exploration, while rushing can leave Grondoval poorly equipped.

Use melee weapons when enemies are isolated and conserve ranged ammunition and magic for dangerous groups or durable foes. Keep track of unopened doors and blocked routes so backtracking is deliberate rather than random.