Sniper Elite 3 sees American OSS agent Karl Fairburne on assignment in North Africa during WWII to assist intelligence efforts and provide sharpshooter skills to Allied forces within exotic, rugged and open land. As part of his mission, Karl learns of a secret "wonder weapon" tank program which, should it become a reality, has the potential to crush any Allied force in its path and turn the tide of the war.

With an emphasis on player choice, Sniper Elite 3 features non-linear gameplay across varied North African terrain such as mountain ranges and sprawling plains, allowing for a greater range of motion and the ability to take longer-ranged shots with customizable weapons.