Afro Samurai is a third-person action game where Afro seeks revenge for his father's murder. His goal is to become The Number Two and challenge the man who wears The Number One, killing him in the process. Each stage tells an important part of Afro's story, leading up to a final boss fight.
Afro Samurai stars Samuel L. Jackson as the protagonist and features a unique combat system. When in "focus mode," the screen turns black-and-white, and time slows down, allowing for precise attacks that can destroy enemies completely. This ability must be charged before use, represented by a pendant hanging from Afro's sword.
As players progress through levels, they earn new skills, increase their power and stamina, and unlock special abilities called "father's legacy." These mementos scattered throughout the stages provide an edge in battles against even stronger enemies.