As a single-button game, Geometry Dash can be played with a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse or controller. The player manipulates the movement of their icon through input in the form of pressing or holding to reach the end of a level. The level restarts if the player crashes into an obstacle, such as a spike, a sawblade, a wall, or a ceiling. There is a 'practice mode' in which a player may place checkpoints to survey or practice a level but is unable to collect coins or gain progress for normal mode. The timing and rhythm of the in-game music are key parts of the game, often relating to each other. There are 26 main levels in the full version of Geometry Dash, 20 of which are unlocked upon installation. Three require a specific number of secret coins hidden within the official levels (also obtained by completing map packs), and the four platformer levels (three of which are initially locked) require the previous to be completed. 'The Challenge' is also official but not considered a main level. Each level grants rewards upon completion. The full version of the game features the ability to upload and download user-created levels.
