As the player progresses, they unlock technologies and graphical upgrades that nod towards different eras of the video game industry.

Through the adventure, the player gradually unlocks graphics, technologies and gameplay until reaching the HD age and a three-dimensional world.

[4] The game alternates between action role-playing game-like phases similar to The Legend of Zelda and Active-Time Battles like those seen in Final Fantasy.

Players collect the in-game currency Glis after each battle, which can be spent in towns to purchase additional items and upgrades, many of which must be obtained to finish the game.

[15] Specialized press and websites acclaimed the potential and originality of the concept as well as the references to cinema and video games history.

According to Destructoid[17] "Evoland's elements form a love letter to some of the most venerated games in their respective genres, and it's surprising just how well the shifting gameplay types work together."