Objectives typically involve the elimination of a hostile presence in a region, assassinating a high-profile target, destroying military equipment or escorting POWs or civilians to an extraction point.

The game features 40 missions in total, specifically taking place in Peru, Chad, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, and Novaya Zemlya.

All missions from the singleplayer campaign can be played cooperatively with additional players replacing the AI-controlled Delta Force operatives.

[13] He also drew comparisons to Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six, released earlier the same year, but noted Delta Force's limited preparation options compared to the latter.

[13] PC Gamer's Todd Vaughn also drew comparisons to Rainbow Six but noted Delta Force's focus on long-distance fights and lower level of realism.

"[17] Next Generation wrote, "Though Delta Force's standalone play is often uninspired, the multiplayer is one of the most satisfying gaming experiences available today.

"[15] The game was successful enough to receive a direct sequel, Delta Force 2, the following year and spawn a long-running series.