Starfighter 3000 is a remake of the original Starfighter game, released for the Acorn Archimedes platform. FedNet is now in control of the federation, and the player, an elite fighter pilot, is assigned to test the latest technology. The game features 15 levels in four worlds, with the player controlling the Predator Mark-IV, a fighter ship capable of space and atmospheric flight.
The gameplay involves rapid movement, as the player has no control over the throttle, except when using a specific flight stick. The player must constantly move to avoid obstacles. The game features two points of view: behind and cockpit. By picking up crystals, upgrading the craft, and combining colours, players can obtain more powerful weapons and upgrades.
One unique feature of the game is its use of lasers to terraform the map. By firing repeatedly at a specific area, players can level or destroy enemy turrets, giving them strategic advantages. The player starts with three lives, earning one every 250k points. If all lives are lost, the game is over, but the player can resume from their last savegame.