Cabelas Dangerous Hunts is a first-person shooter in which the player goes on hunting trips. The game features several game modes, such as Career Mode, which allows the player to create a profile and then customize their stats, age, and appearance. During hunts, there are penalties for killing non-game animals. If the player shoots three non-game animals will result in failing the hunt. Terrain is another thing the player must pay attention to. Falling into deep streams can result in drowning and falling off of high ledges can result in injury or death and failing the hunt. Aggressive animals such as bear, cape buffalo, and leopard will attack the player, which results in injury and death. The player also has an energy limit. After a while of hunting, the player will become tired and need to slow down. This effect can be reduced by carrying lighter equipment and conserving energy.

There are twelve exotic locations which feature twenty-six animals. Game like white rhinoceros, zebra, and hyena are more challenging than the common deer, elk, and wolf. There are a variety of weapons to choose from: eleven types of rifles, three types of handguns, two types of bows, one type of crossbow, and three large hunting knives. The player can use different items to aid in the hunt. Items like scent removers and different animal calls will help attract the animals, while ground blinds and trees stands will help camouflage the player.