In this side-scrolling platformer, the player controls Darkman, a superhero who can jump, kick and punch, as well as swing from a rope during action sequences between levels. In most levels, Darkman's goal is to defeat the boss of the level before the time limit runs out. Tying into the plot of the film, Darkman can use masks to impersonate the various gangsters who are responsible for his disfigurement, but each disguise dissolves after being exposed to sunlight for too long. While in disguise, Darkman gains both a different appearance as well as the special ability of whoever he is impersonating.
Between levels, Darkman must photograph a different gangster before he can make a mask of them. These scenes involve moving the cursor to take a picture of the gangster. The better the photo accuracy, the more time Darkman is granted to complete the subsequent level. The final level is similar to the ending of the film, and takes place on a skyscraper under construction as Darkman fights for his life.