The game is played from a third-person perspective as Raziel explores interconnected areas of Nosgoth. Progress depends on defeating enemies, finding glyphs and weapons, solving environmental puzzles, and reaching new regions through gates, switches, movable objects, and realm shifting.

Raziel fights with his claws, environmental weapons, and the Soul Reaver blade. Defeated vampires can be consumed for energy, while the spectral realm changes movement and interaction rules. Abilities gained during the story, including swimming, climbing, and improved realm manipulation, open previously inaccessible routes.

Explore thoroughly before leaving each area, since visible ledges and unusual walls often indicate later routes or hidden rewards.

Use realm shifting to change the layout of puzzles, and carry a weapon whenever possible. In combat, throw weakened vampires into hazards or finish them with environmental objects instead of relying only on direct attacks.