The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. The objective is to move through successive stages, defeat enemy gangs and ninjas, avoid hazards, collect useful items, and reach each stage's ending encounter.

Rocky, Colt, and Tum-Tum can be selected for different sections or situations. Their attacks and movement emphasize martial-arts combat, while platforming requires careful jumps and timing. Progression comes primarily from clearing stages rather than from a complex upgrade system.

Learn the range and recovery time of each brother's attacks before rushing into groups of enemies. Use short, controlled jumps near pits and moving hazards rather than holding forward continuously.

Explore side paths for items, but prioritize survival when a route contains repeated ambushes. Against bosses, watch the attack pattern first, then strike during the recovery window instead of trading hits.