Battles use an isometric, turn-based system. The player deploys a party on grid-based maps and wins by completing objectives such as defeating a leader or eliminating opposing forces.

Units can move, attack, use magic or items, and change facing. Characters gain experience, equipment, and class abilities across a campaign divided into story chapters. Story decisions can alter the route, characters, battles, and ending. The game also includes training and menu-based preparation between major encounters.

Build a balanced force rather than relying on one class. Keep healers and ranged attackers protected behind durable front-line units, and use elevation and chokepoints to control movement.

Watch alignment, equipment weight, and class requirements when recruiting or promoting units. Save before major story choices, because route changes can permanently affect battles and recruitable characters. Training is useful, but excessive grinding can make later tactical objectives less demanding.