Bubble and Squeak begins with standard platform gameplay. You control a bald child as they navigate through a scrolling landscape of ledges, avoiding enemies that release coins upon being shot. Hidden areas can also be discovered.
After reaching the midpoint of the first 30 levels, you'll encounter Squeak , a blue alien who requires assistance navigating the levels. As Squeak cannot jump as high as the child, he must occasionally wait while the player solves puzzles to guide him through. Standing on top of Squeak allows for an extra-high jump.
The Bubble and Squeak equivalent of Super Mario's special mode is Bubble Mode , which enables the character to jump higher, run faster, and shoot more deadly projectiles (bubbles). This mode is activated by inserting a coin into a Bubblegum machine and then jumping on Squeak's back.
Between the main platform levels, there are side-view shoot 'em up sections taking place underwater – completing these earns bonuses.
Bubble and Squeak was released for the Sega Genesis in 1994.