Bandits! presents a compact arcade playfield rather than a large explorable world. The objective is to destroy incoming attackers, avoid losing the player craft, and continue through successive enemy activity for as high a score as possible.

Play centers on moving into position and firing at targets. Progress is wave-based or score-based, with pressure increasing as the session continues. There are no documented role-playing systems, branching stages, or equipment inventories.

Stay mobile and avoid focusing exclusively on one target. Clear the most immediate threats first, then reposition before the next attack reaches the player.

Use deliberate shots rather than firing without regard to position. Because the game is built around short arcade sessions, survival and consistent accuracy are more valuable than taking unnecessary risks.