Space Harrier is a third-person rail shooter with pseudo-3D graphics, set in a world filled with attacking aliens. The lone titular hero must defend himself against wave after wave of enemies using his wits to navigate around the screen and return fire. However, the end of level bosses are not to be underestimated.
The gameplay involves navigating through levels while avoiding obstacles and fighting off hordes of alien creatures. Armed with a big gun that can launch fireballs, the player must use their skills to outmanoeuvre the enemy and make it to the end of each level. The hero's movement speed is also under the player's control, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game.