The gameplay involves using bombs to destroy the Monstas, their eggs, and cages holding the captured hearts. The eggs have different phases: blue is harmless, yellow will pop within 10 seconds, and red will almost immediately explode. Released hearts fly up, destroying separator blocks and revealing exits to the levels.
Most versions of Pop contain 14 levels to complete, while the Famicom version only has 9. The game requires strategic use of bombs and timing to progress through the levels and reclaim the stolen hearts.