Which Far Cry Should I Play First?
The Far Cry series has been a staple of the gaming world for over two decades, with each installment offering a unique blend of action, adventure, and open-world exploration. With so many games to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll break down the series and provide guidance on which Far Cry game is best for you, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran.
The Series Overview
The Far Cry series began in 2004 with the release of Far Cry, a first-person shooter that set the stage for the franchise’s signature blend of exploration, combat, and storytelling. Since then, the series has grown to include eight main games, each with its own unique setting, characters, and gameplay mechanics.
Here’s a brief overview of each game in the series:
| Game | Release Year | Setting | Storyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Far Cry | 2004 | Pacific Island | Fight against a corrupt government and a cult leader |
| Far Cry 2 | 2008 | Central Africa | Take down a notorious arms dealer |
| Far Cry 3 | 2012 | Rook Islands | Rescue friends from a pirate lord |
| Far Cry 4 | 2014 | Kyrat | Fight against a corrupt government and a warlord |
| Far Cry 5 | 2018 | Hope County, Montana | Take down a doomsday cult |
| Far Cry: New Dawn | 2019 | Post-apocalyptic Hope County | Survive in a world devastated by a nuclear disaster |
| Far Cry 6 | 2021 | Yara, a fictional island | Fight against a totalitarian regime |
Which Far Cry Should I Play First?
If you’re new to the series, it’s recommended to start with Far Cry 3. This game is often considered the best introduction to the series, as it sets the stage for the franchise’s signature blend of exploration, combat, and storytelling. Far Cry 3 also features a more linear storyline than later games in the series, making it easier to follow for new players.
Here are some key reasons why Far Cry 3 is a great starting point:
- Accessible storyline: Far Cry 3 has a more straightforward storyline than later games in the series, making it easier to follow for new players.
- Improved gameplay mechanics: Far Cry 3 introduced many of the gameplay mechanics that would become standard in the series, including the ability to craft weapons and upgrade your character.
- Iconic setting: The Rook Islands, where Far Cry 3 takes place, are a memorable and visually stunning setting that sets the tone for the rest of the series.
Other Options
If you’re looking for a different starting point, here are some other options to consider:
- Far Cry: The original Far Cry is a classic game that still holds up today, but it’s also a bit dated compared to later games in the series. If you’re interested in playing the first game, it’s worth noting that it’s more challenging than later games and has a more limited scope.
- Far Cry 2: Far Cry 2 is often overlooked in favor of later games in the series, but it’s a solid choice for those who want to experience the franchise’s early days. The game takes place in a fictional African country and features a more realistic setting than later games.
- Far Cry 5: Far Cry 5 is a great choice for those who want to experience the series’ more recent offerings. The game takes place in a fictional region of the United States and features a more action-oriented gameplay style than earlier games.
Conclusion
The Far Cry series is a beloved franchise with a rich history and a wide range of games to choose from. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran, there’s a Far Cry game out there for you. By starting with Far Cry 3, you’ll get a sense of the franchise’s signature blend of exploration, combat, and storytelling, and you’ll be well-prepared to tackle later games in the series. Happy gaming!