Red Ball 4 is a 2D physics-based platformer controlled with simple touchscreen inputs. Players tilt their device to roll a spherical protagonist left or right, while an on-screen button is used to make it jump. The goal is to navigate through hazardous levels, avoiding spikes, pits, and enemy squares.

The gameplay involves solving environmental puzzles, activating switches, and bouncing on objects to progress. Defeating enemies is typically done by landing on them or maneuvering objects into their path. The mobile version features discrete levels grouped into themed worlds, each culminating in a boss battle.