[4][5] Players control a cat on a journey to find the "North Star", a treasure capable of granting the wishes of whoever possesses it.

Players explore a world map composed of various islands, where they can travel on foot or across the ocean in a ship.

Crossing the ocean allows for combat with pirate ships, which the player fights using cannons.

[2] Nintendo World Report liked the exploration and found the game "delightfully funny", but felt that it was too short.

[6] The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated Cat Quest III for "Family Game of the Year" at the 28th Annual D.I.C.E.