Being a remake, Far Cry: Instincts' gameplay is identical to that of the PC version of Far Cry. However, because of the Xbox's technical limitations, the game is more linear and does not offer the same level of freedom. Instincts introduces several features absent from the original Far Cry, most notably the "Feral Abilities" and a trap system that allows the player to create a booby trap by wrapping a spiked tree branch around nearby foliage. When an unsuspecting NPC walks by, they are killed by the branch-whip. Claymore mines are also available, and can be set up in the paths of enemies for devastating results. These traps can be employed in multiplayer as well.
There is also a map editor that allows the player to create their own maps with access to many vehicles, guns, buildings, and trees, as well as and the ability to change the landscape. Water cannot be added; it is at a constant height and a player can choose whether or not water is accessible by making the land higher or lower. They may upload the maps and use them on Xbox Live to play against friends.