Vanguard lets players control a ship to navigate through the Gond Cave. The cave is divided in to several sections. Each section is different, and has a different orientation. It could be vertical, horizontal or diagonal. The player can choose to fire one of four guns that are mounted on the vessel. Each gun fires in a unique direction. Some players will also receive energy powerups, which temporarily render them invincible. The ultimate goal is reaching the cave's end to eliminate the Gond.