The game is broken down into six chapters, giving the player the opportunity to explore areas like the train, the North Pole, and more.

[4] The Game Boy Advance version is a 2D side-scrolling platformer which also has some levels where you control The Polar Express train itself in 3D.

"[12] IGN's Matt Casamassina was likewise very negative, finding every sort of gameplay featured was "flawed or underdeveloped" and criticizing its short length.

While she conceded its short length and simplicity would make it a "questionable choice for anyone over 8," she thought that the game's target audience would enjoy it.

[18] The Gameboy Advance version was also more positively received by Nintendo Power, who praised it for its graphics and gameplay, and recommended it for fans of the film.