The game's hybrid mechanics feature a side perspective, resembling a horizontal shooter, but with Commander Video confined to a set path, called the Vibe (along which he can freely move forward and backward), an element of rail shooters.

In addition, the player controls Commander Video's movement independently of his targeting reticule, similar to the style of twin-stick games descended from Robotron: 2084.

The rail takes on various shapes, usually similar to a sine wave, which are predetermined by the stage, while the screen scrolls at a steady rate.

Enemies advance from all directions, firing targeted and patterned bullets tradition to shoot 'em ups.

The gameplay is less rhythmically constrained than previous entries in the series, providing more freedom to the player, but also less dynamic feedback.