The game covers the story of Dragon Ball Z up until the destruction of the planet Namek, where Goku is the only playable character.

Legacy of Goku II and Buu's Fury also allow the player to use a device called a scouter, which is used to look up the stats of the various characters and enemies in the games, as well as basic information about them. Legacy of Goku II and Buu's Fury also feature consumable items that would restore the player character's health or energy, as well as equipment that increases the player character's stats. By defeating enemies, the player receives experience points, which allow the player character to level up and grow stronger. Legacy of Goku II and Buu's Fury featured transformations that made the player character temporarily stronger, using their own 'rage mode' mechanic. Energy attacks can be cycled through with the 'L' button, and more energy attacks are learned as the player progresses through the game.

Energy attacks drain an energy gauge - though it gradually recharges when not in use. The player can press the 'A' button to use physical strikes, while the 'B' button allows the player to unleash a variety of energy-based attacks. The player controls a Dragon Ball character and experiences various portions of the franchise. To the lower left, a time limit can be seen that details how long a fusion has until it ends. The player's currently selected energy attack can also be seen at the far left of the status bar. To the top left, a status bar containing the player's remaining HP (red gauge), remaining energy (green gauge) experience points (blue gauge), and transformation gauge (a yellow tension triangle) can be seen.

Legacy of the dragon