The game uses a side-view arena and one-on-one rounds. A player chooses a fighter, defeats opponents through a ladder of battles, and eventually faces Kintaro and Shao Kahn. Health bars, round timers, blocking, jumping, crouching, normal attacks, special moves, throws, and character-specific finishing moves define each match.

Single-player play is the main structure, while two players can fight against each other when suitable input devices are available. Winning rounds advances the ladder; bonus battles and hidden encounters may appear under documented conditions. Each fighter has a distinct move set and finishing sequence, so spacing, timing, blocking, and matchup knowledge are central to progression.

Learn one reliable normal attack string, one special move, and one anti-air response before attempting advanced combinations. Blocking is essential: punish unsafe special moves and avoid jumping constantly, since many fighters can counter airborne attacks.

Use the practice of spacing and round control rather than trading damage. Save the opponent's finishing sequence input until the game displays the appropriate finishing prompt, and check each fighter's documented move list because special inputs and Fatalities differ. Against Kintaro and Shao Kahn, stay mobile, block patiently, and punish recovery instead of attacking during their armor-like advances.