The game uses a top-down perspective. The player explores a city, steals vehicles, fights enemies, evades the police, and completes missions built around movement, driving, combat, and comedic set pieces.

Story missions provide the main progression, while side activities and collectible-oriented diversions expand the play area. Different vehicles and weapons change how encounters are approached, but the overall structure remains arcade-like rather than simulation-focused.

Learn the city layout before attempting difficult missions. Vehicles are useful for fast travel and can provide cover or a way to escape police attention, but they are not always practical in confined areas.

Approach combat with the environment in mind, switch weapons when a situation changes, and use optional activities to become familiar with movement and mission mechanics before advancing the main story.