the levels in "spyro the dragon" are open-ended, and revolve around exploring and obtaining various collectible items in order to progress forward in the game. each stage contains a number of crystallized dragons, whom spyro must turn back to normal by locating and stepping on their statue bases. these dragons give the player advice on how to progress through the game, as well as their respective locations acting as save points after the dragon has been freed. another important collectible in the game is the dragons' stolen treasure, which is dispersed throughout each level in the form of multicolored gemstones. these gems are located in numerous different places, including inside enemies, breakable boxes, and treasure chests, and most stages contain a set amount of treasure to be found. there are also stolen dragon eggs that must be reclaimed by chasing and defeating thieves. finding every collectible in the game unlocks an additional world that otherwise cannot be accessed.