The Game Boy version of Battle Arena Toshinden is a 2D versus fighting game, instead of 3D. The game features all eight fighters present in the console/PC version, but drawn in super-deformed graphics.
The game has three possible gameplay modes: 1P Game (story mode), Vs. Computer and Vs. Human. In story mode, a different unlockable final boss is featured compared to the console version.
Gameplay involves battles that can be won by either depleting the adversary's life bar or by tossing them out of the ring. Each character has its own special moves and a desperation move, which can only be used when the character has 10% or less of their health.