Rockets! is a puzzle game based on Newtonian physics. In each of the 16 missions the player is required to construct a rocket out of a number of different components in order to complete certain objectives. These can range from getting the rocket to a certain height, to hitting a sequence of targets, to special "firework" missions that involve completing all the required objectives before the rocket's fuel runs out and it explodes.

The game is heavily based on Newtonian physics. The components chosen will alter the rocket's thrust, mass, and wind resistance, all of which will make the difference between mission completion and failure. The player must choose their rockets' components wisely lest the rocket not take off at all!