Gladius is a turn-based tactical role-playing game.[4] There are two main gameplay components — combat and a world map. The primary game mechanic tasks the player with building a school of gladiators and taking them into battle against opposing schools, winning regional tournaments so as to earn the right to compete in more prestigious tournaments.[5][6] Upon beginning the game, the player must choose their player character from two options; Valens runs a school in the Roman-like Imperia, whilst Ursula is a member of a school run by her brother in the Nordic-like Nordagh.[7] The storyline plays out differently depending on which character is used, but the overarching gameplay is the same across both characters.[6][8]