In Escape from Butcher Bay, the player takes the role of Richard B. Riddick and attempts to break out of Butcher Bay prison.^[1] The game incorporates elements from video game genres such as first-person shooter, adventure and stealth,^[2][3] and is played primarily from a first-person perspective, though the camera switches to a third-person perspective during certain scenes.^[4] Unlike many first-person shooters, the game contains no head-up display;^[2][5] on-screen cues are limited to flashes when a new weapon is selected,^[6] and small, white boxes that display the player character's health when damage is taken.^[1] Health can be replenished in predesignated areas throughout the game.^[7] By finding cigarette packs hidden in levels, the player can unlock concept art and video files.^[8]

The player may interact with and receive quests from the prison's residents,^[9] and earns information, tools and other rewards by completing quests.^[10] Violent conflict often occurs between the player, inmates and prison guards.^[1][9] The player attacks with Riddick's bare hands, or with improvised weapons such as shivs and clubs. Combos are created by stringing together punches.^[2][6][11] A DNA-scanning security system initially prevents Riddick from using firearms, but a limited arsenal later becomes available.^[2][6][12]

A "stealth mode" is activated when the player character crouches, allowing the player to move silently and tinting the edges of the screen blue when the player is hidden.^[4] While in stealth mode, the player can drag bodies out of sight and hide from enemies.^[4][10] The mode grants attacks that quickly kill enemies;^[12] the player may drop on enemies from above, or execute them from behind.^[1][12] During the game, Riddick acquires eyeshine, allowing him to see in the dark but temporarily blinding him if used in brightly lit areas.^[6][13]