Thunderbolt II is a flight and hero control game. The most important task is to destroy the obstacles encountered. The player can fly the title plane called Thunderbolt II and Lockheed SR71 or be an F16 fighter who fires air-to-air missiles, bombs and unguided missiles, and has the ability to fire a machine gun.

The game takes place at night, when the enemies start attacking the player's character. The hero's task is to eliminate threats, destroy villages and buildings. The game also offers the removal of industrial buildings, including nuclear power plants. The player will encounter many targets to shoot down, including SAM launchers, automatic weapons, combat ships and tanks. Along the way, the player collects fuel and ammunition to continue his journey.

The game is simple, but takes time to master the game mechanics. Thunderbolt II features eighteen Singleplay-style missions, also has a Multiplay mode and a variety of landscapes: land, water and air. The game play is fluid and varied with interesting special effects and fast action.