In this game you control the main character, Trevor, and advance through a series of stages defeating enemies. As the game progresses, you will have the chance to join up with one of three different partners, each in a specific location. Your chosen partner will join up with you, and you can later switch this partner with any other partner you find. You can switch control between Trevor and his partner using .

Note: Trevor can only be accompanied by one partner at a time.

Each block has a number of stages separated by large doors. Defeat the boss at the end of a block to get the "Life Ball" and clear the block.

If you are unable to clear a block within the time limit, fall into a hole, touch spikes, or are defeated by an enemy, the number of lives you have will decrease by one. If the number of lives reaches zero and you’re defeated again, the game is over.