Players begin by selecting four characters from six classes: Fighter, Thief, Black Belt, White Mage, Black Mage, and Red Mage. The party explores an overworld, visits towns for information and supplies, and enters dungeons filled with enemies and treasure.

Combat is turn-based. Players issue commands such as attack, cast magic, use an item, or run, then watch the round resolve according to character and enemy statistics. Experience points raise levels, while weapons, armor, spells, and key story events gradually expand the party’s capabilities. The adventure includes ships, a canoe, and an airship for reaching new areas.

Build a balanced party if learning the game for the first time; a Warrior, Black Belt, White Mage, and Black Mage is straightforward and reliable.

Buy upgraded armor and weapons regularly, save before entering major dungeons, and carry enough healing items and antidotes. Mapping dungeon routes and retreating when resources are low is often more effective than pushing forward.

Use spells carefully because the NES version limits spell charges by level. The early undead areas make fire and healing magic especially useful.