The Order: 1886 is a story-focused action-adventure game played in a third-person perspective. The player takes control of Sir Galahad of the Round Table, an order serving as protectors of an alternate historyLondon. The gameplay mostly revolves around cover-based shooting.[5][6] The game is structured in a linear manner; the player guides Galahad through the environments, following the story.[5] Galahad and his fellow Knights battle against multiple different foes, including humans and werewolf-like creatures known as half-breeds.[7] Galahad is equipped with several tools and weapons for use in combat, such as variations of rifles, grenades, crossbows, and pistols.[5][6][8][9]
Aside from combat with firearms, Galahad also utilizes melee attacks and silent kills to defeat enemies.[5][6]Another major aspect of the gameplay is use of quick time events.[10] The player is often required to complete button prompts in order to progress.[7] Several types of collectibles providing lore are scattered throughout the world for the player to collect.[11]