In the game, the player controls different starfighters from the Star Wars universe. The player is given full control over pitch, yaw and roll of the fighter. The player has information on ammunition and enemy targets displayed on their heads up display (HUD). The player can issue commands to their squadmates, which are displayed on the HUD. The game features 14 missions both in atmosphere and in space. Each mission revolves around protecting friendly ships and destroying enemy ships. Each mission also has one bonus and one hidden objective completing of which unlocks bonus missions, videos, and starfighters. Each are equipped with different weaponry which can be highly effective in certain missions.
The PlayStation 2 version includes two multiplayer modes. The Xbox Special Edition includes three additional missions, for a total of five. Capture the flag features two versions, one with a pair of flags, and a single-flag variant. Dogfight, is a typical deathmatch mode where scoring is based on kills. Tag selects one person as IT, and they must avoid the other player, who pursues them. Hunter/Hunted is a variant on tag. The game includes a cheat code system to unlock different features and additional content.