Asterix and the Great Rescue is a 2D platform game with strategy elements. Start the game controlling Asterix, or switch to Obelix at any time during play because the two characters do not exist at the same time; instead one replaces the other in a puff of smoke when the switch is made. Asterix is a small, bearded Viking who can duck and crawl into spaces, while Obelix is a large oaf who can push objects around. Each character also has several unique abilities like the wind-up punch or throwing bombs. Take notice, some abilities are unlimited, while some have a limited number of uses. And completing a level doesn't only involve using platform skills successfully, it also involves the effective use of both the characters' special abilities at appropriate times.
While Asterix and Obelix can both jump and punch, dispatch weak enemies with one punch and stronger enemies with several, Asterix and Obelix share the same life bar. So every time an enemy hits one of them or each is hurt in any way, the same life-bar decreases. When the bar is completely drained, you lose a life. Lose all your lives and the game is over. Therefore, look for a variety of items scattered around levels, including health pick-ups to restore the life bar, keys to open doors, and special ability icons.