Matches take place from a side-on, single-screen perspective. The objective is to reduce an opponent's stamina, gain control through grapples, and score a pinfall or otherwise win under the selected match rules.

Players can walk, run, strike, grapple, throw opponents, perform character-specific moves, taunt, and use parts of the arena when the match permits it. Singles and tag-team formats provide the main structure, while stamina and momentum determine how reliably wrestlers can escape or reverse attacks.

Winning matches allows the player to progress through the selected competition, although the exact path depends on the mode and wrestlers chosen.

Learn the timing of grapples before relying on them. A failed grapple leaves the wrestler vulnerable, so soften the opponent with strikes and watch stamina before attempting a decisive throw or pin.

Use the arena edges carefully in matches that permit them, and avoid spending all of your stamina on repeated running attacks. In tag matches, make substitutions before a partner is too damaged to contribute.

• Mix strikes, grapples, and movement instead of repeating one attack.
• Save powerful signature moves for a vulnerable opponent.
• Pay attention to recovery opportunities after a knockdown.