Timeslip resembles Contra III, albeit with simpler graphics and gameplay features. Levels are long and full of enemies and traps; players may find themselves fending off lots of weak enemies before battling an oversized sub-boss, only to face an even stronger, bigger level boss. Traps, in turn, are based on the technology available in each age. The player can use several weapons as laser guns, bombs, etc., which are collected as the game progresses. However, the player can lose their weapons after losing a life. It is also possible to use armored vehicles in some levels.