Shakedown Hawaii follows the story of John Lee, a former cop who has retired to live a peaceful life on the island of Oahu. However, his tranquility is disrupted when an old flame arrives in town, seeking his help to solve a mysterious crime. As John delves deeper into the case, he must navigate the complex web of Hawaiian underworld politics and confront his own troubled past.
The gameplay in Shakedown Hawaii is fast-paced and action-packed, with John Lee fighting his way through hordes of enemies as he explores the island's lush landscapes and bustling streets. Players can switch between John Lee's car and hand-to-hand combat modes to take down foes, and collect power-ups and upgrades to enhance their abilities.