DDR Universe comes bundled with a plastic mat that is meant to be plugged into console while spread out on the floor. Arrows pointing in different directions scroll up the screen, and the players have to perform corresponding steps on the mat. By doing so, points are gained.[3]
Upon the first launch, the game takes the player into Basic Edition, which serves as a tutorial. It consists of How to Play (dancing lessons) and Lesson Mode, a series of 22 tests that teaches every technique in the game. Experienced players can go right to the Master Mode where all the normal game modes are available (quest, party, workout, training, quest, Xbox Live, challenge, edit and jukebox).[4]
The main, Quest mode has the player travelling around the country to compete against the AI while unlocking new songs by earning money,[5] party mode is made of a collection of minigames for up to four players.[6] Also, Challenge Mode gives certain objectives to accomplish for each of the songs, Workout is intended for players to burn off calories, and Edit Mode allows customization of the dance steps for songs and creation of personalized tracks.[7]