The player controls John Rambo from a top-down viewpoint across scrolling jungle combat areas. The main objectives are to advance through enemy territory, eliminate hostile soldiers, locate prisoners, and destroy or reach mission targets.

Rambo moves through open sections while firing at enemies and avoiding their attacks. Progress depends primarily on surviving each area and completing its objective rather than on character development or equipment upgrades. The DOS release is a single-player action game with an arcade-style structure.

Keep moving through exposed jungle areas instead of standing in one position, since enemies can surround Rambo quickly.

Use the terrain and screen edges to control enemy approaches. Clear immediate threats before advancing toward mission objectives, and avoid unnecessary detours when ammunition or enemy behavior makes them costly.