Sword Master is viewed from the side. Each stage requires the hero to move from left to right, defeat enemies, avoid hazards, and reach a boss encounter.

The player can walk, jump, and attack with the sword. Timing and spacing are important because attacks have limited reach and enemies can punish careless approaches. Progression comes from clearing the linear stages and overcoming their bosses; there is no character-level system or branching campaign.

Stay just outside an enemy's attack range and strike when it approaches. Short, controlled attacks are safer than rushing forward.

Learn each boss's movement pattern before committing to a jump or attack. Preserve your position near solid ground, use jumps deliberately, and treat the stage as a sequence of small encounters rather than one continuous charge.