In Area 51 , you take on the role of a commando sent to infiltrate the secret base, which has been taken over by mutant aliens. Your mission is to reach the heart of Area 51, defeat the increasingly difficult alien enemies, and cause as much destruction as possible.
The gameplay involves using a light gun to blast your way through the base, with an emphasis on causing collateral damage to increase your score. You'll need to upgrade your firearm and take down an array of enemy types, from weak creatures to more formidable foes. The game's difficulty level increases as you progress, requiring you to use strategy and quick reflexes to survive.