"headlander" plays out as a 2.5d metroidvania-style game. the character's head, equipped in a special helmet that allows the head to fly around, can also use its tractor beam to take the heads off the robots and use their bodies as needed. robots have specialized functions, so the player may be required to find the right type of robots and maneuver it through the game world to complete a task, such as using a security robot to open a door. the helmet includes a laser system that can be used to damage robots and protect itself, and can gain additional powerups that grant access to other areas of the game world. at times, the player is limited to using only the helmet and needs to fight through sections that are similar to bullet hell games. at other times, the player can also opt to use a robot body to engage in combat, which can include both ranged and melee fights, depending on what type of robot they choose.