Based on the best-selling children's books from author Francesca Simon, Horrid Henry finds gamers taking on the role of the titular tot as he rebels against authority and fends off annoying girls. The action sends players through a variety of classically styled platforming missions in which Henry must use pranks and disgusting behavior to horrify people without getting caught. Gamers can use gags like double drenchers, gross goo, spiders, and stink bombs to get the drop on familiar characters such as Henry's nemesis Moody Margaret, his teacher Miss Battle-Axe, and his annoying brother Perfect Peter. Horrid Henry's multiple difficult settings are designed to make the game accessible to all skill levels, and eight unlockable levels reward gamers who find success.