[6][7] The objective of the game is to burrow through tunnels collecting gems without causing rocks and other things to crush the player character.

[8] Three modes are featured in the game: "EX Game" mode is an updated version of the game, with new enemies, items, and anime-style cutscenes between levels featuring the player character, Alex, embarking on a quest to rescue his friend Sonya from the Dark King.

The "Classic Game" mode features the entire original arcade game, and the multiplayer "Battle Mode" allows up to four players to compete simultaneously using a link cable.

[8] GameSpy summarized: "[...] if you enjoy the genre you can't really go wrong with Boulder Dash EX".

[4] IGN said: "The story and cutscenes are a little on the tacky side, and the graphics might not be the most elaborate seen on the GBA, but Boulder Dash EX is quite a fun, little surprise".