Breath of Fire III is set in a fantasy environment resembling Medieval Europe with several storytelling liberties such as advanced technology. Populated by both humans and anthopomorphized animals, the world is experiencing several scientific advancements thanks to the discovery of chrysm, a rare mineral with magical properties found on the fossilized remains of dragons. While higher forms of technology such as robots and complex machines do exist, their origin is largely unknown, with most of the objects in question washing ashore on various beaches around the world. Much of the game's plot involves finding the truth about this mysterious technology, as well as solving the mystery of the disappearance of the dragons centuries ago.