Splatterhouse 2 features gameplay very similar to the first game. The player controls Rick through eight different stages. Rick's attacks remain largely unchanged, able to punch, kick, jump kick, and slide kick, as well as use several weapons scattered throughout the levels. Each level features a boss at the end, often a grotesque monster. New additions to the gameplay include a difficulty setting and a password system, taken from Splatterhouse: Wanpaku Graffiti. The Japanese version does not have a password system. "Jennifer must be in there. I'll do whatever it takes to save her."