The gameplay involves exploring levels, picking up power-ups to use against enemies, and for the first time in a platformer, executing fighting combos such as punches and kicks. Players can also hijack 15 different enemy monsters, each with special abilities and powers like fire breathing and earthquakes. Interacting with the world is also an option, allowing players to climb trees, swing from ropes, surf, and skate throughout levels. Co-op gameplay allows a friend to join in at any time.
The games across different platforms are almost identical, differing only in controls and graphics, which vary depending on the system's capabilities.