1942 is a vertically scrolling shooter for one or two players. The year is 1942, and you are a daring fighter pilot "Super Ace". You begin each of the numerous levels on an aircraft carrier and then fly your plane into battle against the enemy over both sea and land. After destroying certain plane formations you can collect several different power ups to increase your fire power and chances of survival. You can also make your plane roll to avoid enemy attacks three times per life. There are 24 levels, with the first level being Midway and the last one being The Final Area.
The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking to survive. You must navigate through increasingly difficult levels, avoiding enemy fire while searching for power-ups and trying to destroy as many enemy planes as possible.