Crystal Caves

Crystal Caves is a side-scrolling platform game where players control Mylo Steamwitz, a space trader on repeated expeditions into dangerous mines. His goal is to gather crystals from every level across three episodes, though only the first is available in the shareware release.

The environment presents numerous threats, including monsters like bats and robots, as well as environmental hazards such as stalactites and poisonous fungi. Mylo carries a missile pistol for defense, which is effective against most but not all foes. He has three health points and unlimited lives, but a level must be restarted if he becomes trapped in an unwinnable position, making some situations challenging and requiring advance planning.

Levels contain various collectibles beyond the essential crystals. These include pistol ammunition, score-boosting items like pickaxes, and eggs that reveal letters when shot. Gathering all five letters on a level awards a significant point bonus. Temporary power-ups also appear, such as one that reverses gravity, another that makes the pistol lethal to all enemies, a stop sign that freezes foes, and a red mushroom that allows Mylo to kill by contact. These power-ups are time-limited and often crucial for success.