Night Slashers uses a side-view scrolling perspective. The objective is to move through linear stages, defeat waves of supernatural enemies, collect useful items, and defeat a boss at the end of each area.

Up to three characters can be selected, and the arcade game supports cooperative play. Players move, jump, perform standard attacks, use character-specific techniques, and manage positioning against groups of enemies. Progression is stage-based rather than experience-driven; success depends on learning enemy patterns, conserving lives, and reaching later areas with limited credits.

Stay near the edges of enemy groups instead of letting them surround you. Short attack strings followed by repositioning are generally safer than repeatedly committing to long exchanges.

Learn boss attack cues, use screen space to separate enemies, and save special techniques for crowded sections or dangerous bosses. In cooperative play, avoid standing on the same horizontal line unless you are coordinating attacks.