Embryo Machine is a mecha-themed competitive tabletop combat game. In Embryo Machine, up to six players engage in action-packed free-for-all or team-based showdowns making use of the game's grid battlefield and the cards they draft. Players start each game by first choosing which mecha—called Embryo Machines, or "EMs" for short—they'd like to pilot, according to their playstyle, and then utilize a deck of cards unique to their EM that comprises all of their unit's movement, equipment, and attacks.

Once players have their EMs set up, they then build the battlefield using the modular board that comes with the game. On the board are wide open fields, bottlenecks, stat-altering terrain, and various other obstacles to contend with. Players then position their EMs on the field using the two-sided custom standees, which feature each Embryos' art, and prepare to maneuver around the battlegrounds.