The game uses a side-on perspective for one-on-one bouts. A match is won by defeating an opponent in two rounds, while the player advances through a ladder of increasingly difficult fighters toward Shang Tsung.

Players select from seven primary fighters, each with distinct special moves and finishing moves. The arcade-style ladder includes endurance battles and a secret fight against Reptile, while Goro appears as a major boss before the final confrontation. Timing, blocking, jump attacks, projectile management, and learning each fighter’s reach are central to progression.

Learn one dependable normal attack string and one special move for the chosen fighter before attempting the higher ladder matches. Blocking is safer than trading blows, especially against Goro and Shang Tsung.

Against bosses, punish missed attacks rather than rushing. Watch for projectile patterns, use jump-ins sparingly, and conserve positioning near the center of the arena. Reptile requires a secret encounter condition, so do not expect him to appear during every ladder run.