Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror combines a potent mix of riveting storylines with intricate gameplay that includes fierce melee attacks, brand new target lock and precision aiming systems, target and vision enhancements for day and night tactical operations, and high-tech weaponry. Together, they create a portable interactive entertainment experience that delivers an immersive single-player and online multiplayer experience utilizing both Ad Hoc and Infrastructure connectivity, and featuring four types of wireless multiplayer gameplay modes. Players are given a variety of choices allowing for the creation of unique gameplay, including three difficulty modes that monitor and adjust to skill level. Multiple control layouts also permit gamers to choose precision aiming at all times or enable the player to select a more classic style controller for easy play and target lock shooting.

Besides providing various choices in difficulty modes and control scheme layouts, other new gameplay elements have been introduced to the series in Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror. These include universal ammunition crates to replenish the arsenal for any weapon that is currently equipped, and snap-to- wall mechanics where players can maintain stealth when they choose, all while lining up shots before risking exposure to enemy fire. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror's realistic look is attributed to a multitude of technologies, including "rag doll physics" where Gabe and enemies react realistically to blast damage and other types of attacks, highly detailed texture and dirt maps and improved goggle effects. Character models are built with detail and realism and feature animations for covert moves, knife kills and contextual specific scenarios. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror also features GameShare, allowing users to share a dedicated single-player level of the game with other PSP users who don't already own the game.