In White Snow & Blue Ice, the player takes on the role of a Santa Claus who has built a secret drug empire at the North Pole. Deep inside his Christmas factory, no toys are produced—instead, the labs churn out cocaine, and later even the far more profitable Blue Crystal Meth. He is assisted by scantily dressed helpers who work across the different laboratory sections and keep the production lines running.

In the beginning, the player focuses on the basic production of cocaine. As the game progresses, more advanced and riskier production chains, such as Blue Crystal Meth, can be unlocked. However, all production requires resources, which must be acquired—either through expensive purchases or by using less lawful methods.

Running the labs demands constant attention: production facilities may halt or even catch fire. Quick reactions can prevent severe financial losses. At the same time, the player must manage the delivery of manufactured goods, handle profits, and continuously expand the factory.