Patrols are conducted from several station views, including the navigation chart, periscope, bridge, and torpedo controls. The main objective is to locate enemy vessels, identify targets, approach without revealing the submarine, and complete attacks before returning safely.

Players adjust course and speed, manage submerged or surfaced travel, fire torpedoes, and respond to depth-charge attacks. A patrol is structured around movement, contact reports, engagements, and survival rather than discrete arcade levels. Success depends on cautious positioning, target recognition, ammunition management, and escape tactics.

Use the chart to plan approaches before exposing the submarine. Observe targets through the periscope and confirm their identity and course before firing.

Avoid unnecessary radio or surface exposure, conserve torpedoes for worthwhile targets, and change depth and heading after an attack to complicate enemy counterattacks. Retreat is often the correct decision when escorts begin a sustained depth-charge search.