Combos can be easily performed, and characters have the ability to gain levels by completing stages, eventually unlocking skills and/or adding additional power to their existing ones. The uniqueness of each character allows for different fighting styles, such as those which focus on hitting a large number of enemies versus those which focus on a few (excellent for killing boss characters). Samurai Heroes mixes up the gameplay by adding in other objectives, as well, such as guarding a castle or destroying an enemy's food reserves. Additionally, missions are completed (in general) by defeating 'gate captains' and eventually a boss and/or mini-bosses. The strength of the controlled character allows for superhuman feats of destruction against multiple foes, and the battles revolve around defeating large numbers of enemies. A 'hack and slash' combat style emphasizing large battlefields and an element of strategy.