Battles take place on grid-based maps viewed from an overhead perspective. The player moves allied officers, attacks enemy units, captures bases, and fulfills scenario-specific objectives.

Turns alternate between the player and the opposing army. Officers gain experience and improve through campaign progression, while terrain, unit placement, and control of important locations influence the outcome. The campaign is divided into individual historical scenarios.

Protect weaker officers and avoid leaving isolated units exposed. Concentrate several allied officers on one enemy at a time rather than spreading attacks across the map.

Capture bases when doing so improves movement or creates a safer route, but do not abandon an objective simply to chase an enemy. Check terrain and unit positions before ending each turn, since the opposing army can exploit an exposed flank.