1001 Spikes

The title references the amount of lives the player has to complete the game. These are needed to complete the hard levels filled with enemies and traps such as spikes, boulders, falling platforms, crushing blocks, etc. – requiring a lot of trial and error. Basic controls consist of movement, a regular and a high jump, and an attack move (both melee and ranged). It is also possible to talk to characters at certain moments. A large amount of characters and additional costumes can be unlocked throughout the game, usually by discovering gold skulls in levels. Certain characters have specific abilities.

The gameplay involves navigating through levels, avoiding hazards such as spikes, and completing objectives. Most levels require a key to unlock the door that leads to the next level. The player must also manage their lives carefully, as losing all of them will result in the game being over. The game can be played locally with up to four players and also in versus mode. Additionally, there are three arcade modes called The Golden Vase, Tower of Nannar, and The Lost Levels, which offer additional challenges and gameplay options.