Inside is a cinematic platformer with many game mechanics similar to the developer's previous game Limbo . The player controls a young boy and it starts with no context as he climbs down a rock at night in a dark forest. There are no conversations or explanations in the game, but the events reveal it is set in a dystopian universe where sinister experiments are performed on humans or human-like creatures.
The gameplay involves solving environment-based puzzles, hiding from people and animals, escaping in chase sequences and completing sections with platform mechanics. The boy moves in a hostile environment and cannot be spotted, but it is not explained if he escaped or deliberately seeks out the mystery. Controls are limited to movement, jumping, and grabbing objects to operate them or to move them around. Progress often involves trial and error to test different options as every challenge usually requires a new approach. The boy can operate elevators, climb or swing from chains and ropes, swim underwater, operate a tiny submarine and so on. There is also a mechanic involving mind control to control other characters. Later on in the game a small group of characters can be gathered and they follow him around automatically.
The game has a dark environment with sparse use of colour. Checkpoints are activated automatically and chapters can be revisited at any moment using a menu. Optionally certain hidden objects can be located and disabled, along with an alternate ending to discover. The game builds suspense and tense moments, but also scenes that focus entirely on solving a puzzle with no pressure.