Keystone Kapers for the Atari 5200 is an action-packed platform game where players assume the role of Officer Kelly, a cop tasked with catching the escaped convict, Harry Hooligan, in a multi-level department store. The game's objective is to pursue the thief across various floors, dodging obstacles like shopping carts, bouncing balls, and open elevators, while collecting points and avoiding running out of time. Players must capture Harry before he reaches the rooftop. This arcade-style chase game offers fast-paced gameplay with simple controls that exemplify early 80s video game design.