Curse of the Dead Gods begins with a pursuit of riches, eternal life, and divine powers that leads into an accursed temple. Its seemingly endless rooms and corridors conceal bottomless pits, deadly traps, and monsters. The premise makes each descent a dangerous attempt to press farther into a place where death does not end the struggle: the player rises to fight again and delve deeper.
Combat draws on weapons including swords, spears, bows, and guns, while mystical Relics offer another way to build strength. Light and fire are important tools against threats in shadow, and exploration brings hazards such as fire-spewing statues, explosives, and hidden spikes. These details make the temple more than a backdrop: its dangers shape the route through each attempt as much as the enemies do.
Corruption builds with every step, and curses may be encouraged or ignored; each can be a double-edged sword that changes the risks of a run. The game is described as a skill-based roguelike, with champions and deadly bosses among its enemies.