The player must maneuver a character (Pitfall Harry) through a maze-like jungle in an attempt to recover 32 treasures in a 20-minute time period. Along the way he must negotiate numerous hazards including pits quicksand rolling logs fire rattlesnakes scorpions and crocodiles. Harry may jump over or otherwise avoid these obstacles by climbing running or swinging on vines. Treasure includes gold and silver bars diamond rings and bags of money. Under the jungle there is a tunnel which Harry can access through ladders found at various points. Travelling though the tunnel moves forward three screens at a time which is necessary in order to collect all the treasures within the time limit. However the tunnels are filled with dead-ends blocked by brick walls forcing the player to return to the surface at one of the ladders and try to find a way around again thus wasting time. The tunnels also contain scorpions which can harm Harry.