Superman Returns is based on the movie of the same name. You control the man himself as he flies around Metropolis, saves citizens and fights natural disasters, fires and supervillains alike. You have constant access to Superman's powers including heat vision, freeze breath, invulnerability and flight at supersonic speeds, though the former two are limited by a stamina bar. Unusually for this genre, Superman himself does not take damage and the challenges are all built around saving others from harm.
Gameplay involves melee combat, using heat vision and freeze breath to defeat enemies, as well as picking up objects to throw at villains. You can also use everyday items like lampposts as clubs.
The city of Metropolis is presented as an open world where you can fly anywhere and complete side missions at any time. There are various tasks to complete, such as rescuing kittens and putting out fires, adding to the sense of urgency and responsibility.
Throughout the game, you'll encounter two distinct sequences: a high-speed race around the city against Myxyzptlk, and Bizarro mode, where your goal is to destroy Metropolis.