Sega Superstars Tennis features both Exhibition and Tournament modes. The Exhibition mode allows players to compete against each other in simple vs matches, while the Tournament mode offers a more challenging experience where players can unlock new characters and courts as they progress through the tournament. Singles and doubles matches can be played with either humans or AI opponents, and players can choose their own doubles partner.
Sega Superstars Tennis ' characters each have their own special moves that can be used during matches. For example, Beat from Jet Set Radio has a power that allows the ball to grind against the net and shoot off at random points, making it difficult for opponents to return.