Explore distinct eras including 1000 AD, 600 AD, 65,000,000 BC, 12,000 BC, and 1999 AD. The party visits towns, dungeons, and historical sites, solves environment puzzles, recruits allies, and changes events by acting in different periods.

Battles use the Active Time Battle system. Characters select attacks, items, and techniques from menus while time gauges fill. Two- and three-character Double and Triple Techs become available when the required abilities are learned. Equipment, levels, character placement, and party composition shape progression, while New Game Plus enables later playthroughs with retained progress and access to alternate endings.

Use party members whose Techs cover the enemies in the current area, and inspect each character's Tech list after learning new abilities. Double and Triple Techs are especially effective when their area damage or healing saves turns.

Pay attention to sealed chests and doors encountered in different eras. Many can be influenced by interacting with them in an earlier period before collecting the resulting item later. Keep several save files before major story decisions, because optional events and the route to some endings depend on when and how you challenge Lavos.