In Yars' Revenge, you control an insectoid pilot attempting to destroy the Qotile, an enemy protected by a massive energy shield. To win, you must break through this barrier by shooting it or "eating" the cells with your character. Nibbling the shield or touching the Qotile charges the Zorlon Cannon. Once active, you must line up and fire this projectile to land a killing blow. Meanwhile, you must dodge a relentless homing missile and a lethal, spinning "Swirl" attack. A central Neutral Zone provides safety from missiles but leaves you vulnerable to the Qotile’s deadly Swirl.