Secrets of the Past is a match-3 game with a globe-trotting theme. The player helps adventure-seeking animals explore different regions of the world by completing match-3 puzzles. They earn up to three stars, a golden trophy score and four collectible rewards per level.
The player receives a conditional request from the animals to collect specific stones during match-3 games. They must align three matching ones horizontally or vertically. Once they've collected the right number, they receive their winnings and move on to the next level. If they don't earn three stars, they can use three previously earned ones to replay the level. If they fail to meet their gemstone goal, they can use a red heart to try again.
The game displays the number of remaining moves, current earned points and conditions in the upper-left area. It displays a star meter in the lower-left corner. The player can track green gem rewards and their red heart balance in the upper-left corner.
Secrets of the Past offers both special items, known as bonuses, and boosters. The player can both create and earn these tools. To use the power of most special items, they must align an item in a match-3 set. With boosters, they use it as dictated by the type.
For example, if they align four matching stones in a horizontal or vertical line or in an L or T shape, they create rays that can take out an entire row or column or bombs, respectively. With five stones, they create a rainbow-colored seven-petal flower that can remove all of one type without the player making a match-3 set. They just swap it with one stone. With a Thor's Hammer booster, they merely select the hammer and then a single stone.
