Die Hard Arcade is a 3D beat 'em up game based on the first Die Hard movie. One or two players work their way up and down a skyscraper in attempting to rescue the President's kidnapped daughter. Many fighting moves are available through the simple controls of punch, kick and jump, plus movement.
The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with many weapons available to be picked up and used as weapons. Other objects can also be used as weapons such as chairs, an aerosol and lighter combo, and even a grandfather clock! However, there are reaction tests that require a button to be pressed quickly, usually punch, kick or jump, which can lead to extra fights with little reward in terms of items.
The final showdown takes place on the roof of the skyscraper, where players must fight against the mastermind. The game also includes an old Sega arcade game, Deep Scan , which can be played to gain extra credits for the main game.