10-Yard Fight

Gameplay is top-down and vertical-scrolling. There are no pre-play selections; the player takes the snap as quarterback or defends one of two players. On offense, the player can either keep running with the ball, pass to a teammate, or throw long to the receiver. If intercepted, the opposing team gains possession. Alternative options include punting the ball or attempting a field goal if no touchdown is scored. A game consists of 30-minute halves, with one touchdown needed before time runs out in each half to win.

The US version plays like traditional American football, while the Japanese version has altered gameplay.

Players start as high school teams and must score a touchdown within the two-game halves before time expires. If successful, they progress to higher difficulty levels. The game ends when all time is used up in each half. If both halves are won, the player advances to the next level.

In the 1-player mode, players are always on offense and score points by completing passes or gaining yards through running or passing. A touchdown scores additional points, with the option to add extra points after scoring.

Other field rules include earning first downs to extend game time and penalties for interceptions or four consecutive plays without a down.

In 2-player mode, the second player defends until their turn to play offense.