Dig Dug is a 1-2 player arcade game where you must use your shovel to dig through the earth. Two monsters, Pooka and Fygar, will constantly chase you around, making it difficult for you to progress. Your only weapon is an air pump, which can be used to inflate the monsters, causing them to explode.
The earth is also filled with rocks that can be used to squash certain enemies. However, if the monsters are not found for several seconds, they will turn into ghosts and become invincible. These ghostly creatures can walk through the earth and cannot be harmed. Occasionally, vegetables will appear in the center of the screen, allowing you to collect points.