Armed F is a vertically scrolling shooter with a straightforward gameplay principle: shoot a lot of aliens without getting hit by their attacks. Players must also navigate through environmental obstacles like poisonous gas or walls. Collecting power-ups can upgrade the ship, granting speed-ups or new types of weaponry. Each level features its own set of enemies that require specific weapons to defeat. However, smaller ships will often follow the main ship, requiring a secondary fire button press to change formation.
The game's design ensures no continues are available, adding an extra layer of challenge to the experience. Players must rely on their skills and quick reflexes to progress through the seven levels. With each level bringing new enemies and obstacles, players will need to adapt quickly to succeed.