In Mad Max, the player takes on the role of titular character Mad Max (Kym Bradley). He is assisted by another man called Chumbucket. Chum mainly works with Max to build and upgrade the Magnum Opus vehicle. Mad Max will feature a variety of weapons which Max can use to defeat enemies. Though the shotgun is Max's weapon of choice, ammo is scarce, and so melee options are the smarter way to go. The 'thunderstick' is an explosive weapon that can be lanced into an enemy's chest, blowing the victim up. The harpoon can be used in-vehicle with Chum riding along. Max's Magnum Opus can be combined with a V12 engine and powerful ramming ability to destroy enemies' vehicles and weaponry. When simultaneously driving and aiming, the game enters slow-motion and allows to toggle between targets.