Players move through side-scrolling stages while fighting criminals, avoiding hazards, and defeating larger encounters. Batman and Robin can attack at close range, jump, and use environmental objects or pickups during their progress through Gotham City.

The game is structured as a sequence of action stages ending in boss encounters. A second player can join as the other hero, making cooperation important when enemies surround the characters. Progress depends primarily on surviving each stage and defeating its boss rather than on character development or equipment customization.

Use short attacks while keeping enough space to react to groups of enemies. Avoid rushing into crowds, since surrounding attackers can drain health quickly.

In two-player mode, spread the heroes across the screen without separating too far. Focus on one dangerous enemy at a time, learn boss attack patterns, and save useful pickups for crowded sections or boss fights.