Gem Smashers is an action puzzle game where the object is to free trapped animals by smashing colored gems. Players control one of three prehistoric critters in their quest to eliminate gems of the same color before time expires. Yet before players can smash the gems, they must first transform their character into the appropriate color by finding the correct power-up. Only then will players be able to eliminate all the gems and uncover the hidden exit where the imprisoned animals can escape. Game modes include Story, Arcade, and Vs. Battle, with three additional variants unlocked during the course of play.
Story Mode features nine habitats to advance through, each offering multiple screens for more than 100 levels, with boss character fights at the end of each habitat. Players can also try their hand at Arcade Mode, which features over 60 levels of gem-smashing action, or challenge a friend in the Vs. Battle Mode. The latter supports two players using a Game Link Cable. Visual techniques used by Italian developer Frame Studios Interactive include alpha blending, scaling, and shadow and lighting effects. Known in Europe under the working title of Bau Bam Bom.