Gauntlet: Third Encounter is a top-down hack-and-slash action game. Generations ago an enchanted Star Gem crashed to Earth at the base of an ancient castle. Loathsome creatures crept from the castle and carried the Gem into the depths of the fortress. All attempts to retrieve the Star Gem failed. The adventurers were destroyed. The creatures in the castle gained magical strength from the Star Gem. Unless the Gem is taken from them, the evil ones will soon have the strength to venture forth and destroy mankind. The protagonist and his friends must take up the quest to retrieve the Star Gem and save their world.
Players control one of four heroes: Death, Warrior, Wizard or Archer, each with unique abilities and strengths. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed as players navigate through levels, fighting enemies and collecting power-up items to aid in their quest. The game features a variety of traps and obstacles that players must avoid or overcome to progress.