Montezuma's Return is based on the design of the original Montezuma's Revenge , with some 150 levels directly ported from the PC game. The majority are new and feature a camera closer to the action, with levels scrolling instead of fitting into a single screen.
The player takes the role of an adventurer exploring a pyramid to steal its treasures. The goal is to grab all treasures and reach the exit without dying. Since the player has no attack option besides rare daggers, most of the game involves dodging using ladders or jumping to avoid enemies and obstacles such as closed doors, conveyor belts, and disappearing platforms.