Golden Axe: Beast Rider is the first game in the series played in a 3D world. The player is again tasked to fight against Death Adder. This is accomplished by taking control of Tyris Flare, the Amazon. Unlike the other games, there's no choice of character, although Gilius Thunderhead the dwarf and Tarik the Ax Battler do make cameo appearances as NPCs.
The game features three modes of play: a campaign mode where you complete the story, a challenge mode where you replay completed levels, and an arena trials mode where you fight enemies in an arena-style environment.
Gameplay involves choosing between quick attacks or powerful attacks, and can be parried or evaded. You also have jumps, kicks, and magic at your disposal. When riding a beast, you can choose from normal, special, or ranged attacks.