Arena uses a first-person perspective for exploration, dialogue, dungeon navigation, and combat. The main quest sends the player through several regions of Tamriel while optional guild work, wilderness travel, treasure hunting, and randomly generated quests provide substantial freedom.

Players create a character by selecting a class, attributes, skills, and equipment. Combat takes place in real time, with melee attacks represented by mouse gestures or directional input and spells selected from the character's available magic. Experience levels improve attributes and grant stronger abilities, while equipment, resting, shops, and spellmaking support long-term progression.

Save frequently, especially before entering major dungeons or accepting uncertain quests. Dungeon layouts can be confusing, so mark important doors, exits, and objective locations on the automap or with written notes.

Maintain several combat options. Carry reliable weapons, keep healing magic or potions available, and rest when safe. Guild training and useful equipment can matter more than simply advancing the main quest, while careful travel planning reduces the risk of running out of supplies.