Each bunker also has one medical kit and one ammunition can, so every bunker is vitally important. In each map, there are several areas where weapons and ammunition are stored. Each side has a different set of weapons which the players can switch during battle. A game can host up to four players via split-screen who may choose between the Soviet and American sides. Players can know who the bunkers belong to because of a star above each one a Soviet bunker is marked by a red star, while an American bunker is marked by a blue star. Bunkers are positioned around the map and spawn either Soviet soldiers or American freedom fighters. The flag is usually in the center of the map. The console versions' multiplayer revolves around securing flags and bunkers. Given the terrain of New York City after the initial invasion, the Resistance usually stations its soldiers in covered positions like craters and buildings.

In the game, the player can command recruits by giving them simple orders such as 'follow', 'attack' and 'defend', but in most situations, they take care of themselves. Freedom Fighters uses a simple method of controlling recruits in battle. The more charisma that is gained, the more squad-mates the character can recruit, including leaderless guerrillas and wounded Russian soldiers, up to a maximum of twelve. The player gains charisma points by performing various deeds, such as capturing a base or destroying enemy supplies. Freedom Fighters is third-person shooter, in which the player navigates through the streets of New York City with a controllable squad of teammates while fighting the occupying Soviet forces.

Freedom fighters