The gameplay is exactly as the first Streets Of Rage game but introduces two new characters being Max Thunder and Eddie "Skate" Hunter, brother of Adam Hunter from the original game. However, due to the storyline of the game, Adam Hunter is not playable in this version for he was kidnapped by Mr. X (the main villain in the first game). Axel and Blaze gain new moves and special moves along with the game having more items to pick up and weapons.