Far Cry 5 is one of Ubisoft’s biggest releases of the coming year, but according to a recent interview with GamingBolt, scope and hype levels don’t necessarily correlate to campaign length. Lead writer Drew Holmes told the publication not to expect anything beyond conventional.
While the source lacks a direct quote from Holmes to back up its claims, the exact wording is that “Far Cry 5’s campaign will be around as long as what we’ve seen from previous games.” Taking that implication at face value, it would suggest that, between story missions and the occasional side quest, the game will take 20 to 30 hours to complete. That time can obviously balloon a bit during completionist playthroughs, but the listed threshold is probably what most casual players will experience.
Holmes’ thoughts on Far Cry 5’s weapon and customization systems were expounded upon to a slightly greater degree. While he didn’t share any specifics, franchise fans can expect an expansion of what they’ve seen from the series over the past few years:
“It has a robust school system. And there’s going to be lots of weapons to play around with. We’re going to go into it later. But expect improvement and stuff you have see in previous Far Cry games.”
Such is to be expected from any new entry to a popular franchise, but it’s good to see a direct confirmation of those kinds of developments from Holmes. As seen during the game’s E3 trailers and demos, much of the weapon roster of Far Cry 5 is centered around heavier artillery than some fans may be used to. Befitting of the game’s Montana setting, the people of the fictional Hope County have resorted to shotguns and dynamite to resolve their heated conflict with the villainous Joseph Seed.
With regard to specific systems, E3 focused mostly on a squad mechanic ripped straight out of Metal Gear Solid V. The player’s character can team up with various militia members that each provide specific perks. Want some sniper cover and extra support? Enlist the assistance of Mary May. Hoping for wreak havoc from above? Pilot Nick Rye can make it happen.
Much like Ubisoft’s own Assassin’s Creed Origins, however, it seems Far Cry 5 will also try quite hard to break many of the series’ established conventions. Unlike its predecessors, 2018’s game will feature no radio towers or mini-maps to guide players toward their next big mission. Instead, navigation will be handled by a small compass so that individuals feel more encouraged to explore the space around them. Playing alone or with a friend, Far Cry 5 intends to offer only the best familiar elements while tweaking the concepts some fans may have grown tired of.
Far Cry 5 releases Feb. 27 on PS4, Xbox One and PC. Make sure to read our early impressions of the game right here.
Are you OK with the standard campaign length of Far Cry 5? How would you like its gameplay systems to expand? Tell us in the comments section.
