The game encompasses several modes: Motocross, Opencross, Supercross, Supermoto, Endurocross, Free Ride and Minibikes, among others. The player has a relatively wide choice of vehicles, from monster trucks, to trophy trucks, to ATVs to motorbikes. In some modes, gameplay takes place over two motos, or qualifying events. The player's finishing position in the first moto determines who gets gate choice in the second moto. The player's finishing position in each moto determines how many points he or she gets. The goal is to finish the weekend with the most points. Additionally, in some modes, the player can participate in a short practice race, which can help players become familiar with the track and the vehicle prior to the two motos. Setting the fastest time in practice gives the player first gate choice for the first moto. There is also a "Free Ride" mode which allows the player to explore indoor and outdoor locations featured in the other modes without time or track restrictions.
All versions of Untamed support multiplayer, with handheld versions supporting up to 4 players via a local wireless network (without cross-platform play) and the console versions supporting head-to-head racing between just two players on split-screen, while utilizing online multiplayer to support contests with larger player pools, similar to its predecessor Unleashed. The Wii version supports multiple control schemes, namely the Wii Wheel, the Wii Remote and Nunchuk or the Classic Controller, with most control schemes leveraging motion controls to steer and execute tricks. The mobile version is a side-scrolling racer,[2]omitting the larger machines to focusing on MX and ATV only.