Cages of Fear is a single player dice-based game in a book. You must slay foes, avert traps, and strengthen your chosen character to progress. Though unforgiving, gameplay is replayable and unpredictable; akin to a 'roguelike' or 'dungeon crawler' in a book.

Play as either a footman, a magister, or a brigand; each with particular items or abilities. Dice rolls determine how you advance through the dungeon, combat enemies, and search chests and shrines for items. Any gold or equipment you acquire can be traded with a merchant, to help arm your character, or to stave off death.