Riot City is a 2D side-scrolling beat 'em-up game that puts players in the shoes of either the American detectives Paul or Bobby. Bobby and Paul investigate a drugs syndicate known as M.I.D. Then Paul receives a telephone call that the syndicate kidnapped his girlfriend. The two are now off to save her.

You fight various different types of enemies and bosses with jump, kick and hand to hand moves. Along the way items to replenish health can be picked up. The game can be played solo or with friend. The game Riot Zone on the TurboGrafx CD can be considered a semi-port