The bulk of the game consists of 3D mazelike maps that all have their own look and feel. Some are set in one level, while others have several layers. Aside from the maps, the only other 3D representation is that of the monster. To some older gamers, Hellnight can be seen as a modern 3D Monster Maze. Other characters, including the player's companion, appear as static 2D renders, though they have been modeled in 3D. They are never physically present on the map until the player activates them through movement, a completion of a task or pressing the 'talk' button. It has never been made clear if this is intentional to scare the player with a 'pop-up' cast (the creature 'pops-up' albeit animated) or if it is due to budget and time restraints.