The game uses a behind-the-craft perspective on a continuously scrolling vertical route. The objective is to survive each stage, destroy enemies, collect power-ups, and defeat the boss at the end of the area.

The fighter can operate in two depth planes. Switching planes helps avoid attacks and obstacles and can expose targets that are otherwise difficult to hit. Movement within the current plane is handled with the directional pad, while the ship's weapon is used continuously or in repeated shots. Progression comes from temporary weapon improvements and completion of successive stages.

Stay near the center of the playfield until enemy patterns are clear, then move decisively rather than making small reactive corrections.

• Use the two depth planes to evade dense volleys and to line up attacks on enemies in the alternate plane.
• Collect weapon power-ups when the route is safe, but do not cross a hazard merely to obtain one.
• Learn boss attack cycles and preserve your strongest weapon for openings instead of firing while repositioning.
• Watch the edges of the screen; enemies and obstacles can enter from positions that are difficult to see in advance.