The Sword is a 2D action game for one player reminiscent of the Gameboy era.

You play as a Beggar who is led through the forest by a mysterious voice and arrives at the base of an old tower. The voice speaks of the tower being trapped in a nightmare and commands that you enter its perilous halls and slay the 1,000 beasts that infest it.

Gameplay is straightforward and focuses on engaging beasts in swiftly-executed combat, navigating hazardous areas of various effects called Terrain, and doing both in tandem in an "obstacle course" style of ever-increasing difficulty. Another focus is on the acquisition of magical Orbs that grant new abilities, and the collection of equipment from difficult yet optional Lairs which makes the slaying of beasts and navigation of Terrain easier.

The player's progress is saved at the beginning of every new floor, and the use of gamepads is supported.