Beyond Shadowgate mixes point-and-click with sidescrolling action. For puzzles, you have a command screen for look, use, talk and an inventory screen for the things you pick up. On top of this, you can also duck and punch so you'll have to do some button mashing as well as sitting and thinking.

All characters have multiple frames of animation, so it is fun to interact. There are multiple things you can do which affect gameplay. Experimenting to see what all you can do will reveal secrets, or new ways to die. For example, if you save an old woman who was yelling for help, she will sit you down and show you her family album. She'll keep yakking until you die of old age. Did I mention SAVE OFTEN?