The game alternates among three types of stages: side-scrolling combat, top-down driving, and first-person shooting-gallery sections. Billy advances through enemy-filled areas, defeats bosses, and proceeds through a linear rescue mission.

In combat, the player moves, punches, kicks, jumps, and uses occasional weapons or items. Driving stages require steering while avoiding hazards, and shooting stages use the NES Zapper or controller-based aiming where supported. Health and weapon resources make careful play important.

Learn the timing of punches, kicks, and jumps rather than rushing into groups of enemies. Approach opponents from the side, keep room to retreat, and prioritize enemies that can attack from a distance.

Conserve health and usable weapons for boss encounters. In driving and shooting stages, favor steady movement and deliberate aiming over speed; memorizing hazards and enemy positions is often more useful than reacting at the last moment.