Expanding from its predecessor, ATV Offroad Fury 3 features more ATVs, along with more championships, mini-games and improved physics. As is with the rest of the series, the game revolves around racing all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) around a dirt track. In addition to racing, another major focus of the game is stunts. Stunts can be achieved by tapping a combination of buttons while the player's ATV is in the air. Each stunt requires a different amount of time to perform. The game also provides "free-roaming offroad gameplay."
The game also offers online play via i-Link, local area network (LAN) or other network connections.
The game contains features for customizability, such as choosing parts for your ATV, changing color schemes, and even creating your own unique logo.
Upon release in 2004, the game was well received by critics and fans of the franchise for its open world feel and advanced game physics.