Dex is a 2D side-scrolling action platformer set in Harbor Prime, where an oppressive organization called the Complex controls the city with corrupt megacorporations. The player takes control of Dex , a young girl who is awakened by a voice telling her she's about to be assassinated and needs to stay one step ahead of the Complex.
The gameplay focuses on exploration, non-linear progression, and combat. Dex can earn experience points by completing quests and defeating enemies, which can be used to upgrade her skills such as fighting, lock-picking, or computer hacking.