The Patience Game: How Long Do You Really Have to Wait at the Beginning of Far Cry 5?

The answer, surprisingly, is not long at all. You only have to resist handcuffing Joseph Seed for a few minutes at the very start of the game to trigger a secret ending. If you remain inactive and refuse to arrest the cult leader, Sheriff White will eventually instruct you and your fellow deputies to leave, leading to an unexpected (and somewhat anticlimactic) conclusion and the rolling of the credits. We are talking between 2-5 minutes. However, this is not the real ending, but a gag.

Understanding Far Cry 5’s Opening Moments

Far Cry 5 throws you right into the heart of the conflict. You’re a junior deputy tasked with arresting Joseph Seed, the charismatic and dangerous leader of the Eden’s Gate cult. The opening sequence is intense, and the tension is palpable. It’s easy to get swept up in the urgency of the situation, but the game cleverly offers an alternative: passive resistance.

By choosing not to act, you can unlock a secret ending that highlights the futility of intervention and the deep-seated problems within Hope County. This ending is a commentary on the nature of conflict and the difficult choices faced by law enforcement in such extreme circumstances. It also offers an entertaining meta-narrative about video game storytelling itself.

The normal opening sequence lasts about 50 minutes before you are truly unleashed upon the world. This is where the game gives you the tutorial of the game, sets up the storyline and makes the characters believable and memorable.

The Secret Ending: A Gag or a Statement?

While often regarded as a gag ending, the secret ending in Far Cry 5 is more than just a cheap trick. It forces players to confront the complex moral and ethical issues at the heart of the game. By refusing to engage, you are essentially acknowledging the overwhelming power of Joseph Seed and the potential for violence to escalate.

This ending isn’t satisfying in the traditional sense, but it is thought-provoking. It raises questions about the role of the player in the game world and the consequences of their actions (or inaction). It also serves as a stark contrast to the explosive and action-packed gameplay that defines the rest of the Far Cry 5 experience.

The Value of Passive Resistance in Games

The inclusion of a secret ending triggered by passive resistance is a clever design choice. It acknowledges that not all conflicts can be resolved through violence and that sometimes, the best course of action is to step away. This theme resonates with real-world issues and adds a layer of depth to the game’s narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Far Cry 5’s Beginning

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the details of the beginning of Far Cry 5 and the potential for a secret ending:

1. How do I trigger the secret ending in Far Cry 5?

To trigger the secret ending, simply do not handcuff Joseph Seed at the beginning of the game. Wait a few minutes, and Sheriff White will eventually tell you to leave.

2. How long do I have to wait before the secret ending triggers?

You need to wait approximately 2 to 5 minutes after the game begins.

3. Is the secret ending the “true” ending of Far Cry 5?

No, the secret ending is more of an Easter egg or a gag ending. The true ending is achieved by progressing through the main storyline and confronting Joseph Seed.

4. Can I still play the game after getting the secret ending?

Yes, you can reload the game and choose to handcuff Joseph Seed to continue the main storyline.

5. What happens if I resist arresting Joseph Seed in the regular playthrough?

If you resist arresting Joseph Seed during the main storyline’s final encounter, you trigger a “bad” ending where nukes fall and you are captured.

6. Is Far Cry 5 suitable for younger players?

Far Cry 5 contains mature themes, violence, and strong language. It is generally recommended for players 17 years and older, but if the child is mature to hear a few swear words than it should be alright.

7. Can I avoid being captured by the cult in Far Cry 5?

No, being captured by the cult is a crucial part of the story. It is unavoidable if you wish to progress.

8. Which Far Cry game is the shortest?

Far Cry New Dawn is generally considered the shortest game in the series, with an average playtime of around 11 hours.

9. Do I need to play Far Cry 5 before playing Far Cry 6?

No, the Far Cry games are independent stories. You can play Far Cry 6 without having played Far Cry 5.

10. What is the significance of the helicopter at the beginning of Far Cry 5?

The helicopter brings you, the US Marshal, and the Sheriff to arrest Joseph Seed, setting the stage for the entire conflict.

11. Is it possible to complete Far Cry 5 in under 5 minutes?

Yes, by triggering the secret ending at the very beginning, it is theoretically possible to “complete” the game in about 5 minutes.

12. Can I save Eli in Far Cry 5?

No, there is no way to save Eli. Choosing not to shoot him results in a game over.

13. Can I choose to play as a female character in Far Cry 5?

Yes, Far Cry 5 allows you to choose between a male or female protagonist.

14. What makes Far Cry 6 better than Far Cry 5?

Far Cry 6 often praised for its story progression, which gives players more freedom, and the method of story progression in Far Cry 6 gives players much more freedom over how they play the game and which side activities they choose to complete.

15. Can I continue playing Far Cry 5 after finishing the main story?

Yes, you can explore the open world, complete side missions, and collect items after completing the main storyline. You can also replay the game in New Game + mode.

Conclusion: Patience is a Virtue (Sometimes)

While Far Cry 5 encourages action and exploration, its opening moments offer a unique opportunity for reflection. By choosing to wait and observe, you can unlock a secret ending that challenges the conventions of video game storytelling and highlights the complexities of the game’s themes. So, the next time you start a new game, consider exercising a little patience. You might be surprised by what you discover.

Interested in learning more about the educational potential of games? Visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for research, resources, and community.