Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap, known in Japan as Monster World II: Dragon no Wana, was released in 1989 for the Sega Master System. The game is a direct sequel to Wonder Boy in Monster Land, developed by Westone and published by Sega. Unlike Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair, which is more of an action-packed shoot-’em-up, The Dragon’s Trap offers an open-ended adventure with platforming elements.

The story begins where the previous game ended: Wonder Boy defeats the Meka Dragon but is cursed and transformed into “The Lizard-Man.” From there, he must explore a large, non-linear world, defeat dragon bosses, and collect the pieces of the Salamander Cross to regain his human form. Along the way, equipment and health can be upgraded, enemies drop coins to be spent in shops, and the game includes a password system so players can continue their adventure later.