Battles take place on square grids viewed from an overhead perspective. Players capture cities and bases, produce units, move infantry and vehicles, attack opposing forces, and manage fuel, ammunition, income, and terrain defense.

The campaign is divided into missions with changing objectives and scripted events. Each army has a commanding officer with unique strengths and powers; Dual Strike also introduces dual CO selection and Tag CO powers. Completing battles earns rankings and unlockable content, while War Room, Survival, Combat, and multiplayer modes provide additional challenges.

Use terrain and range before spending resources. Forests, cities, and mountains improve defense, while roads and plains help vehicles move efficiently. Protect indirect-fire units behind screening troops and avoid leaving damaged units exposed.

Capture properties early when safe, because income determines production and repairs. Check enemy movement ranges every turn, preserve fuel and ammunition, and use CO powers when they change the tactical situation rather than simply activating them as soon as they are available.

In Dual Strike, compare the strengths of both selected COs before deploying a Tag Power. A strong first CO can create an opening, while the second can exploit it with a different unit bonus or timing effect.