Throughout its history, the Far Cry franchise has taken players on some truly captivating journeys to unique destinations, each adding depth and excitement to its stories. Adventurous exploration lies at the core of Far Cry’s appeal, and as whispers about the next installment circulate, fans are abuzz with speculation about its setting.
From the expansive terrains of Montana in Far Cry 5 to the ancient world of Far Cry Primal, the games have melded real-world influences with fictional elements, crafting unforgettable settings. The series has ventured into the Pacific more than once, and a third exploration, possibly with a more grounded approach, could elevate the upcoming Far Cry narrative significantly.
The Pacific Islands have already served as backdrops for two standout titles in the series. The original Far Cry was set in Micronesia, while Far Cry 3 unfolded within the imagined Rook Islands. These lush and vibrant landscapes provided stark contrast to the intense narratives, leaving a lasting impression on players. A return to the Pacific could once again enhance the series’ storytelling.
While real-world inspirations infuse many Far Cry games, they often blend with fictional touches. Take Yara in Far Cry 6, drawing creatively from Cuba, though entirely fictional, or Far Cry 5’s Montana, where only Hope County is a product of imagination. Reimagining the Pacific Islands with a similar blend of authenticity and creativity could recapture the striking realism seen in Far Cry, harkening back to its Micronesia days, where the locale was real, but the specific archipelago wasn’t.
Far Cry 3 attempted a similar approach but with entirely fictional Rook Islands. The next step for the series could be exploring places like Fiji, Hawaii, or Samoa, introducing gamers to genuine cultures rather than fictional counterparts. This blend of reality with narrative fiction created some of the franchise’s best environments and could transform Far Cry into an avenue that highlights lesser-seen regions in video gaming.
As fans wait eagerly for word on Far Cry’s future, speculation continues about where the series might head next. Rumors have swirling around a new setting inspired by North Korea, although Ubisoft remains tight-lipped. Another intriguing rumor suggests a 72-hour in-game time limit. While nothing is confirmed, such features could significantly shake up the franchise. Even with these possibilities, Pacific Island locales, rich with history and culture, present an equally compelling prospect for Far Cry.
Time will reveal the direction Ubisoft chooses for Far Cry, possibly as soon as 2025. With last year’s challenges behind them, a new Far Cry installment, packed with engaging stories and an enticing setting, could be just what Ubisoft needs to regain momentum and excitement among fans.
