Choplifter II takes place in the midst of an ongoing war, where you play as your helicopter pilot, tasked with rescuing hostages from enemy-held territories. Your mission is to fly through treacherous landscapes, avoiding damage from enemy fire, buildings, and other obstacles.
Gameplay revolves around navigating through levels, destroying enemies using various weapons, and collecting a set number of hostages. As you progress through the game, you'll encounter more challenging terrain and tougher foes. The helicopter's health will take damage from contact with certain objects, making it essential to find safe havens or use your wits to avoid taking unnecessary risks.