In Super Stardust HD you pilot a space fighter that glides freely across the spherical shield wrapping a planet, able to fire in any direction independent of where it's moving. Your main enemies are three varieties of asteroid and an assortment of hostile spacecraft, all arriving in timed waves. Your ship carries three upgradeable weapons — each best suited to particular asteroids and foes — plus a limited supply of bombs and a boost that grants brief invulnerability before needing to recharge. Power-ups scattered across the field include weapon upgrades and a shield capable of absorbing one otherwise-fatal hit.