The game is viewed from a third-person chase perspective behind the car. In Undercover mode, Tanner completes objectives such as following suspects, escaping police, delivering vehicles, and surviving timed pursuits across four cities.

Players steer through traffic, use handbrake turns, avoid police roadblocks, and manage damage while following mission-specific rules. Training introduces advanced maneuvers, while Take a Ride and other challenge modes provide freer driving and pursuit-based play. Completing missions unlocks later story events and locations.

Learn the training course before attempting difficult campaign missions; its slalom, braking, and reverse-180 exercises teach techniques used throughout the game.

Use the handbrake to turn sharply, but release it quickly so the car does not lose too much speed. During pursuits, narrow streets and traffic can be more useful than open roads because they limit the pursuing car's approach.

Watch the objective text and damage meter. A fast route is not always the safest route, and restarting early is often better than trying to recover from severe vehicle damage.