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Ubisoft’s Far Cry series has undergone significant evolution since its inception in 2004, with each installment bringing forth new settings, gameplay mechanics, and visual enhancements while retaining the franchise’s signature themes. While each game maintains its identity as a Far Cry title, one installment stands out as a black sheep within the series: Far Cry 5.
Far Cry 5 diverged from established traditions in two notable ways. Firstly, it marked the series’ first foray into a setting within the United States, specifically the fictional Hope County, Montana. Prior entries had whisked players away to exotic locales like the African savanna and the Himalayas, making Far Cry 5’s American backdrop a departure from convention. However, the game’s portrayal of Montana’s picturesque countryside imbued it with an allure akin to the exotic locales of its predecessors, challenging preconceived notions of what constitutes an intriguing setting.
Secondly, Far Cry 5 introduced the option for players to embody a customizable protagonist, breaking the series’ tradition of fixed male protagonists. Players could now create male or female characters, offering a newfound sense of inclusivity and player agency. This departure from convention paved the way for subsequent installments like Far Cry 6, which continued to offer players the choice of a male or female protagonist.
Despite these departures from tradition, Far Cry 5 remains quintessentially a Far Cry game at its core. Its themes, plot elements, and open-world exploration uphold the franchise’s identity while pushing boundaries and challenging expectations. As the series continues to evolve, future installments may draw inspiration from Far Cry 5’s willingness to break the mold, ensuring that each entry remains fresh and captivating for players.
As Far Cry 7 looms on the horizon, rumors swirl about its setting, hinting at a potential shift to Korea. Whatever the future holds for the series, the legacy of Far Cry 5’s innovations will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, shaping the direction of the franchise for years to come.