Stray is a thrilling action game with puzzle elements that follows the journey of a brave feline hero in a mesmerizing cybercity inspired by Kowloon Walled City. One day, the cat finds itself separated from its family and tumbles down into the underbelly of the city. With no clear way back, it embarks on a perilous quest to navigate through the decaying environment, encountering droids left behind by the humans who once inhabited this world.
The gameplay in Stray is diverse and engaging, with various experiences that keep players on their toes. Players must traverse linear corridors, slowly exploring and finding a route to progress, while also navigating fast-paced sections where they must evade Zurks, creatures that can attach themselves to the cat. With quick reflexes and puzzle-solving skills, the player can shake off these pesky creatures and continue their journey. As they progress, a Defluxor device becomes available, allowing the player to harness UV light to destroy the Zurks in a bid for freedom.
Another aspect of gameplay is the freedom to explore hub environments, where players can roam freely, getting on rooftops, sneaking inside buildings through windows, and solving puzzles along the way. These sections often have goals, such as locating specific items or droids, but also plenty of optional quests through collectibles and memories that provide insight into the city's mysterious past.
Throughout their adventure, players can interact with various characters and objects in a creative and engaging way, using typical cat behaviour to solve problems. The player can meow to attract attention, push down items off objects, hide in cardboard boxes, jump on levers, and even scratch doors to get the attention of those inside.