Final Fight One uses a horizontal side-scrolling perspective. The objective is to clear each stage by defeating waves of Mad Gear enemies, collecting restorative food and weapons, and reaching the stage boss.

Players select Haggar, Cody, or Guy and progress through a fixed sequence of Metro City areas. Each fighter can walk, jump, attack, grab opponents, throw grabbed enemies, and use a special attack at the cost of some health. Environmental hazards and weapons affect encounters, while boss victories advance the story. The portable version is primarily a single-player arcade-style experience.

Learn enemy attack patterns and avoid standing in the center of a crowd. Move toward one side of the screen, clear nearby threats, and use throws to interrupt dangerous enemies.

Save special attacks for situations where several opponents surround you, but remember that they consume health. Grab food whenever it appears, prioritize weapon-using enemies, and use stage walls or corners to limit attacks from behind.

Choose Haggar for power and throws, Cody for a balanced approach, or Guy for faster movement and rapid attacks.