The strategic layer presents a geoscape where the player tracks aquatic incidents, places bases, researches recovered technology, manufactures equipment, and manages finances and personnel. Success depends on maintaining funding and intercepting threats before they spread.

Tactical missions use turn-based, isometric maps. Soldiers spend time units to move, turn, aim, fire, use equipment, open doors, and interact with terrain. Missions include investigating sites, recovering artifacts, rescuing civilians, and eliminating hostile forces. Survivors gain experience, while casualties and equipment losses carry between missions.

Build a balanced roster and train replacements before committing experienced soldiers to dangerous missions. Early research should improve underwater combat capability and reveal better weapons, armor, and vehicles.

Use cover, reserve time units for reaction fire, and avoid exposing several soldiers at once. Equip missions for their environment, secure the entry area before advancing, and monitor worldwide activity so neglected regions do not withdraw funding.