When considering the Far Cry franchise, the notion of multiplayer gaming may not immediately come to mind. Instead, one might envision grandiose set pieces and breathtaking global escapades. While the series has dabbled in multiplayer features in the past—most notably with online co-op campaigns in Far Cry 5 and 6, alongside some PvP modes that failed to gain traction—the latest installment has notably omitted these elements. However, Ubisoft’s CEO, Yves Guillemot, has signaled a shift in focus for future titles, emphasizing a stronger emphasis on multiplayer experiences.
Ubisoft’s Vision for Multiplayer Integration
During his address at the New Global Sport Conference in Saudi Arabia, Guillemot articulated Ubisoft’s ambition for the Far Cry series: “really to bring the multiplayer aspects more predominantly pushed, so that it can also be played for a long time by players.” This declaration raises eyebrows, especially given the franchise’s reputation as a leading contender in the open-world genre.
Despite the mixed reception of live-service models in recent years—evident in the struggles faced by titles like Ubisoft’s XDefiant—many studios continue to explore this territory. The potential for Far Cry’s multiplayer component could manifest in various forms. It might return to cooperative campaigns, but Guillemot’s emphasis on a predominant multiplayer experience hints at something more expansive. Speculations abound regarding the revival of PvP modes or the introduction of a sandbox environment where players can leave hints or useful items for each other during their adventures.
While it remains too early to evaluate the implications of these multiplayer features on the next installment of Far Cry, the announcement may evoke a sense of trepidation among long-time fans, as it diverges from the series’ established identity. For those who relish the immersive world of Far Cry, the anticipation of its next chapter is palpable, even if the specifics remain shrouded in uncertainty.
If you enjoy the Far Cry experience, you might also appreciate our curated list of the best sandbox games, where every decision influences the game world. Although it may be premature to include Far Cry 7 among the anticipated PC releases—given the absence of a confirmed release year—there are certainly numerous exciting titles on the horizon to keep gamers engaged.
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