Digging Strike combines elements from the original Dig Dug and its successor, Dig Dug II. The top screen shows an overhead view of the stage, similar to Dig Dug II. The bottom screen shows the stage in classic Dig Dug side view as you dig. Your goal is to defeat a single large boss character that has taken over the stage. Enemies move around underground with you, collecting food. Should they get their hands on food, they float up to the surface and are then consumed by the boss character, which then evolves into a more difficult form. You've got to avoid this by taking out food and enemies under ground. You have a number of weapons and items at your disposal outside of just your drill. Underground, you'll find magnets, bombs and boxing gloves which can be used to defeat enemies. You'll also find parts strewn about underground that you can use to build new weapons.