Ubisoft Shifts Far Cry Focus Towards Multiplayer
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot has confirmed that upcoming entries in the popular Far Cry series will place a greater emphasis on multiplayer elements. Speaking at the New Global Sport Conference in Saudi Arabia, Guillemot highlighted the company's intention to integrate network features more deeply into the franchise, aiming to keep players engaged for longer periods.
This strategic direction aligns with previous leaks from 2023, which suggested that Far Cry 7 is in development using the Snowdrop engine. Those same leaks also pointed to the creation of a separate, standalone multiplayer extraction shooter, reportedly set in Alaska. These rumors now appear to gain significant credence with Guillemot's official statement.
Historically, the Far Cry series has experimented with multiplayer modes, though they have often been perceived as secondary to the robust single-player campaigns. Far Cry 2, 3, 4, and 5 all featured competitive online components, alongside the cooperative play seen in Far Cry 6, which launched in 2021. However, these multiplayer offerings never truly achieved widespread success or built substantial, long-lasting communities, typically functioning more as an optional addition rather than a core pillar of the experience.
Following the release of Far Cry 6, Ubisoft made significant changes to the franchise's development structure. The series' production was returned to the experienced hands of the Ubisoft Montreal team, accompanied by a leadership overhaul. Sandra Warren stepped into the role of Vice President and Executive Producer for the brand, while Drew Holmes, known for his writing on Far Cry 5, took over as Franchise Director. These changes, coupled with Guillemot's recent announcement, signal a potential new era for the Far Cry series, one where online interaction and persistent engagement play a much more central role.
For players, this news suggests a significant evolution for Far Cry. While the series has always been celebrated for its expansive open worlds and engaging narratives, a stronger multiplayer focus could mean more diverse online modes, deeper cooperative experiences, or even persistent online worlds. This shift aims to provide more reasons for players to stick with the game long after the credits roll, potentially offering a fresh take on the classic Far Cry formula and expanding its long-term appeal.
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