The UnderGarden is an exploration-focused game set in an underwater setting. The player controls a monster as it travels through several underwater caverns. Starting from a central center, various environments are gradually unlocked. There are other objectives, such as gathering unique flowers or finding a hidden crystal. However, these are not required; all levels can be completed without collecting them. The “zen” experience comes first, as the creature may restore color to the caverns, transforming them into a lush aquatic paradise.
The creature must collect pollen to restore its color. Tiny sparkles of seed are collected by bumping sacks marked in green and filling up a bar. Swimming in the proximity of any plant causes it to grow in a rainbow of colors. The action has no reward, but it is the main game mechanic. Some musicians can be carried around to change the color palette of plants. Pollen and musicians are pulled around by charging to create a halo, and the latter can be released when no longer required. The creature can also boost its speed.
While most places may be traversed without incident, there are a few problems. Rocks or levers bar some entrances. The player must find specific plants that produce fruit that can be transported around. Yellow flowers press objects down, blue flowers lift things, and red plants give bombs to blow up boulders. Later stages add powerful currents that lead the character and blue balls that drain all accumulated pollen. The many levels are linked together through warp zones. There are also checkpoints; if you get stranded, you can return to the most recent one. There are no enemies, no health system and the creature cannot die. The game can be played jointly, with another animal assisting in the restoration of color.
