Downwell is a vertically oriented action game about a boy who goes down a well looking for treasure. It consists of twelve levels, based on four themes, and the environments are randomized for each session with a final boss at the end. The game only uses three buttons: two to move left and right and one to shoot. A level is completed by reaching the bottom. Generally firing is only possible in a downwards direction. The boy wears gunboots that have a limited amount of charges. They are recharged by touching a solid surface: a platform or an enemy. At the same time each blast provides a slight upwards push, so shooting is also used as a way to propel the boy up slightly or correct the movement pattern. The game can be played in a very slow way, drawing near enemies one by one, but it encourages fast movement and attacks in succession. The game has different enemies and mechanics in each of the four main areas. For example, some levels are underwater and require quick movement to collect additional air. Enemies have different colour combinations that reveal how they can be damaged. Some must be jumped on top of, while others can only be killed with bullets or avoided altogether.
The game also has roguelike elements, such as a limited amount of health and the need to replay the entire game when the boy dies. There are platforms with time bubbles that contain treasure caves or shops, which offer random rewards and upgrades. The boy's weapon can be upgraded, but it always restores one health unit.
The game has a minimal, retro-like style and only uses three colours. Through multiple runs, experience is gained for a global level, unlocking different playing styles and palette swaps. A harder mode can also be unlocked.
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