Cave Story 3D has three menu options when you start the game: story mode, time attacks, and 2D mode. 2D mode replaces the 3D models with 2D sprites in 3D environments.

Aside from 3D graphics, Cave Story 3D has been redesigned with expanded levels and surprises for NISA fans. Producer Jack Niida said to Siliconera there would be hidden NIS characters and one may even be a weapon.

Cave Story 3D comes out on November 8 in North America.