Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3 continues the PSP-exclusive sub-series with additional characters, an original storyline, and four-player battles through a local wireless connection. It is the first Ultimate Ninja Heroes game set in the later Shippuden version of the animated television series, with more mature characters and plotlines. Over four dozen characters from the Naruto and Naruto Shippuden shows are featured in the game, although some may need to be unlocked. In addition to the head-to-head multiplayer fighting, there is a "Master's Road" adventure with multiple plotlines; one highlights the story arc of the television show, another focuses on Sasuke and Team Hebi, and another follows an original narrative created for the game. Some adventures may be played in a cooperative multiplayer mode for up to three, and computer-controlled allies will help in the single-player adventure modes.