What is Blood Dragon Based On?
Overview
Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon is a standalone expansion to Far Cry 3, a first-person shooter video game. Released in 2013, Blood Dragon is an unusual spin-off that sets itself apart from the rest of the Far Cry series with its unique art style, tone, and gameplay. So, what is Blood Dragon based on? In this article, we will delve into the answer, exploring the game’s development, inspirations, and connections to the Far Cry franchise.
Direct Inspiration
Hoban "Ward 3" Jackson‘s love for 1980s pop culture, science fiction, and action films heavily influenced the creation of Blood Dragon. Jackson, the co-founder of Red Storm Entertainment, was tasked with creating a Far Cry spin-off that would depart from the traditional franchise formula. He drew inspiration from iconic sci-fi and action films of the 1980s, including the likes of "RoboCop," "The Terminator," "Blade Runner," and "Hawk the Slayer." The end result was a neon-lit, retro-futuristic world set in the 2007-2008 era, with a tongue-in-cheek, humorously exaggerated storyline.
Gaming Influences
In addition to the movies that inspired Blood Dragon, game developers drew influence from classic video games, such as "Battletoads," "Contra," and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time." These games, with their side-scrolling action and arcade-style gameplay, had a significant impact on the Blood Dragon development team’s design decisions.
Far Cry Series Connection
Blood Dragon may have strayed from the traditional Far Cry formula, but it is still a part of the franchise. The game takes place in 2007, between the events of Far Cry 2 and 3. The protagonist, Sergeant Rex Colt, is an undercover agent who has infiltrated a corporation experimenting with cyborgs and super-soldiers. While not directly connected to the main storyline, Blood Dragon shares the same open-world, action-packed gameplay and emphasis on combat and exploration as other Far Cry titles.
Key Features and Gameplay Mechanics
Some notable features of Blood Dragon include:
• Retro-Style Gameplay: The game has a distinctly 1980s arcade feel, with fast-paced action and exaggerated combat mechanics.
• Cyborg Characters: The main protagonist, Sergeant Rex Colt, and the antagonist, Donovan Hunt, are both cyborgs, offering a fresh take on character development.
• Guns, Lots of Guns: Blood Dragon is a shooter at its core, and it features a wide range of firearms, explosives, and energy weapons.
• Collectibles and Easter Eggs: Scattered throughout the game are references to other classic movies and video games, including hidden Easter eggs and collectibles.
Reception and Legacy
Despite being a departure from the traditional Far Cry formula, Blood Dragon received positive reviews from critics and players alike, praising its unique art style, humor, and engaging gameplay. While not as popular as some other Far Cry titles, Blood Dragon has maintained a loyal fan base and remains a cult classic among gamers.
In Conclusion
In answer to the question, Blood Dragon is based on a unique blend of 1980s pop culture, science fiction, and action films, with influences from classic video games. While not directly connected to the main storyline of the Far Cry series, it still shares many gameplay elements and thematic elements. With its retro-style gameplay, cyborg characters, and emphasis on combat and exploration, Blood Dragon is a stand-out title in the Far Cry franchise, offering a fresh and entertaining gaming experience.