Kung-Fu Master is a side-scrolling action game for one or two players, where they alternate turns. The game is loosely based on a movie and follows the story of Thomas, a kung-fu master who owns a restaurant, as he attempts to rescue his pickpocket Sylvia from Mr. X's castle.
The castle has many opponents that need to be defeated before reaching the top floor, where Sylvia is being held captive. The final boss, Mr. X himself, awaits on this level, making it an even greater challenge for Thomas.
Players control Thomas, who can move left and right, jump, duck, and perform punches and kicks. Enemy projectiles like knives can be kicked into the air to redirect them at enemies, giving Thomas an advantage in combat.