As in previous installments, players must mimic the routine of an on-screen dancer to a chosen song, scoring points based on their accuracy. The game requires motion controllers to dance (Wii Remotes on Wii and Wii U, PlayStation Move on PlayStation 3, a choice of either PlayStation Move or PlayStation Camera on PlayStation 4, and Kinect on Xbox 360 and Xbox One).[2]
Selected songs now feature "On Stage" modes—routines in which one player dances in a lead role while others perform as backup dancers.[3] Lyrics are displayed above the dancers in this mode instead of the bottom left, in order to focus on singing along. The Xbox One version also include an alternate routine for "Kiss You" (serving as a classic routine in that said version instead of the original four player routine, which has been the classic routine on other consoles, in which is now the alternate routine in that said version) that can be played by up to six players at once.[2] However, Dance Crew routines are four players only in that said version. The "AutoDance" feature allows users to record footage of their gameplay, which can then be uploaded to the Just Dance website or shared on social networks.[2][3] The "Karaoke" feature allows players to use connected microphones to sing along to all of the lyrics on-screen. Players also earn bonus "Mojo" points for singing along.[2][3][4] "Gold Moves" in Mashups have made its return after its absence from the previous game, Just Dance 4.
Online multiplayer was added by means of a ghost data system, as well a new mode known as "World Dance Floor"—in which players compete against others simultaneously on the same song in a massively multiplayer setting. Players can join in at any time with 8 player parties, except for the Wii version, compare their performance against other players during and after each song, and increase their level by playing more often. Occasionally, players can vote to decide on the next song.[4]
Additional second screen features are available on the Wii U and Xbox One versions of the game using a Wii U GamePad or Xbox SmartGlass; users can manage playlists, and manipulate gameplay and routines in the "Party Master" mode, which is a revamped version of the "Puppet Master" mode from Just Dance 4, with dance moves no longer tied to all entries of the Just Dance series, and are free to choose any of the four randomized dance moves, as well as the ability to switch songs at certain times. The GamePad's camera can also be used to record AutoDance footage and serve as a microphone for karaoke.[2][5]
All online services for the game were discontinued on 19 November 2018.[6][7]