The objective of the game is to burrow through tunnels collecting gems without causing rocks to crush the player character.

[8][3] The Nintendo 3DS version of the game was developed by Ludosity, with lead designer Daniel Remar having been a fan of the Boulder Dash series.

[7] Boulder Dash-XL was developed by Catnip Games, based in Germany.

[14] IGN called the game "simple and fun" but said that "the visuals and sound don't deliver on the same level as the gameplay".

[15] GamePro called the game "an enjoyable ride that's well worth your time".