The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Players advance from left to right through linear stages, defeating soldiers, creatures, turrets, and other hazards while collecting weapon power-ups and keeping their characters alive.

A run consists of several combat stages separated by boss encounters. Players can move, aim their attacks in multiple directions, jump over obstacles, and use a limited bomb attack when surrounded. Cooperative play allows two players to fight through the stages together, while progression depends on surviving each level rather than building a persistent character.

Keep moving while firing, and use the full range of aiming directions to clear enemies before they surround you. Learn the timing of stage hazards and boss attacks rather than relying only on rapid fire.

Save bombs for dense enemy formations, difficult jumps, or moments when a boss attack leaves little room to maneuver. In two-player games, avoid standing on the same horizontal line when enemies enter from both sides.