The game is played from a first-person viewpoint while riding a dragon through open three-dimensional mission areas. Objectives include attacking enemy dragons, destroying ground targets, protecting friendly forces, and reaching mission goals before the dragon or its resources are exhausted.

Players steer in the air, select targets, use the dragon's attacks, and manage combat positioning. Missions form a campaign, with successful sorties advancing the story and allowing later scenarios to be attempted with greater experience and tougher opposition.

Keep moving during aerial engagements rather than flying in a predictable straight line. Use altitude and turning room to line up attacks, especially when several enemies are present.

Read each mission objective carefully and prioritize required targets over optional combat. Avoid wasting attacks on distant or poorly aligned targets, and leave enough time and resources to complete the return or protection portion of a mission.