The main story is viewed from a side-scrolling perspective. Goku travels through linear stages, defeats groups of enemies, avoids hazards, collects items, and battles powerful bosses drawn from the original series.

Players can move, jump, attack, use special techniques, and perform stronger attacks as abilities become available. Completing story sections unlocks additional characters and modes, including versus battles. The campaign follows a fixed narrative rather than branching paths, while later stages test combat timing and the use of each character's strengths.

Learn the timing of the basic attack string before relying on special moves. Short jumps and repeated attacks are usually safer against ordinary enemies than charging into a group.

Against bosses, stay mobile and punish recovery animations rather than attacking continuously. Save health-restoring items when possible, and practice the versus mode to become familiar with character reach and attack speed.