The game uses a third-person exploration perspective, with pre-rendered backgrounds and polygonal characters. Ryu and his companions travel between towns, wilderness areas, and dungeons while pursuing story objectives, solving environmental puzzles, and gathering equipment and items.

Combat is turn-based. The party chooses commands such as attack, skills, items, and defense, then acts according to character speed. Ryu can combine collected genes to transform into different dragon forms. Party members learn abilities from masters, and fishing and camping provide optional activities and useful resources.

Use the Masters system deliberately: different teachers alter the statistics and ability growth gained at level-up, so choose them according to each character's intended role.

Experiment with dragon genes outside difficult battles, but keep reliable forms available for bosses. Save healing items, inspect dungeon scenery for hidden paths, and use fishing and camping to restore resources and improve long-term preparation.