The Far Cry franchise is a core pillar of Ubisoft’s library, but it’s fallen flat in recent years. 2021’s Far Cry 6 was commercially successful, but critically mixed. The series faces mounting (and valid) criticism from fans and critics alike, pointing out the monotony of Ubisoft’s open-world formula, which is more or less unchanged since Far Cry 3.
A change of course for Far Cry is undeniably necessary, and potential solutions may be brewing in the form of two rumored projects currently in active development at Ubisoft Montreal. These projects could offer the refresh the franchise desperately needs.
Project Maverick: Departure From The Norm?
Details about Project Maverick are currently scarce, but rumors suggest it could be a significant departure from the traditional Far Cry experience. Credible industry insider Tom Henderson reported in 2023 that Project Maverick is designed as an “extraction-based shooter”, potentially drawing inspiration from games like Escape From Tarkov.
This implies a focus on high-stakes raids, reportedly set within the harsh environment of the Alaskan wilderness. Additionally, rumors mention an emphasis on survival mechanics, and a potentially punishing permadeath feature, adding nail-biting tension and exhilaration to gameplay. With such major changes to Far Cry‘s formula, Maverick has the potential to breathe new life into the franchise.
Project Blackbird: Bold Twist On The Far Cry Format
While Maverick seems like a fun deviation, it’s actually Project Blackbird that’s touted to be the next mainline entry in the franchise. Potentially the 7th entry of the series, Blackbird retains the open-world format but promises a twist on the core gameplay loop that is simply unheard of.
According to Henderson’s report, Blackbird will feature an in-game timer, granting players only 24 real-life hours to rescue their kidnapped family members from a cult called ‘Sons of Truth’. This ticking clock adds a thrilling urgency to the experience, forcing players to prioritize and make tough decisions within a limited window.
The narrative is also said to be non-linear, allowing players to tackle the rescue mission in any order they choose. The choices players make can have significant consequences, shaping the story and possibly affecting which family members survive, thus enhancing the game’s replayability.
The leaks also mention a new interrogation mechanic to extract information about the whereabouts of the hostages. If this really is Far Cry 7, then we’re in for a thrilling experience.
Project Blackbird is rumored to utilize Ubisoft’s Snowdrop Engine, the same game engine powering the upcoming Star Wars Outlaws. While the game’s official release date remains unconfirmed, leaks suggest a potential fall 2025 launch window.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that these details are based on leaks and rumors, and certain aspects like the in-game timer and permadeath feature might just be cool ideas that don’t make it to the final builds.
However, these tiny glimpses into Ubisoft’s plans to revitalize the Far Cry franchise paint a promising picture. If these projects deliver on their innovative concepts, they could be the breakaway point from the series’ current stagnation, and may just make Far Cry the icon it was back in the “definition of insanity” days.
Are you hyped for these upcoming Far Cry games? Let us know in the comments!
