In Shock Wave, players take control of an F-177 fighter jet, engaging in aerial combat against alien forces. Players must manage their ammunition and fuel while utilizing lasers and missiles to defeat various alien vehicles, including large walkers and agile aircraft.

The storyline of Shock Wave unfolds in the year 2019, where an alien invasion has devastated Earth's military. Players assume the role of a rookie pilot in the surviving squadron, tasked with reclaiming the planet from the extraterrestrial threat through ten global missions.

Shock Wave stands out with its combination of live-action cutscenes that progress the narrative between missions, enhancing the immersive experience and providing context to the player's aerial battles.