The overworld uses a top-down perspective. Players visit towns, speak with inhabitants, buy or receive items, and enter dungeons or combat areas while pursuing the story. Exploration is tied to key items and events that open new routes.

Combat stages switch to side-scrolling action. Jack and Ryu punch, kick, jump, avoid hazards, and use equipment or special abilities against groups of enemies. Progression comes from defeating bosses, collecting items, and advancing through increasingly demanding areas.

Learn enemy attack patterns before committing to close-range strikes. Short attacks followed by a retreat are safer than standing directly in front of durable enemies.

Search towns and stages carefully for healing items, equipment, and story triggers. In two-player play, separate enemy attention and avoid both players occupying the same vulnerable space.