In its combat system, most human-level creatures and characters can suffer only two or three successful attacks before receiving an injury that can instantly maim or kill.

Zweihänder has no powers for regeneration or resurrection, and it offers limited options for healing to players.

In an article for The Escapist, Fox explained:In Zweihander there are real consequences for failing dice rolls, and we often like to joke that “naps don’t heal stab wounds.” The choices you make for your character...will change your character in a way that alters their psyche, outlook, and values, both mechanically and narratively.

The profession system reflects the late medieval/early Renaissance setting of the game and gives an idea of what a character might have been doing either before or during their adventures (such as a preacher, coachman, courtier, inquisitor, merchant lord, rat catcher or sellsword).

In 2018, Zweihänder won the Gold ENnies awards for Best Game and Product of the Year at Gen Con.