Far Cry 6 and Far Cry 5: Untangling the Timeline
No, Far Cry 6 is not set before Far Cry 5. The narrative of Far Cry 6 unfolds after the events of Far Cry 5, although the connection isn’t always immediately obvious. While Far Cry games are largely standalone experiences, the events of Far Cry 5, specifically “The Collapse,” play a subtle but crucial role in the broader Far Cry universe timeline. Yara, the setting of Far Cry 6, was largely unaffected by the nuclear devastation that ravaged Hope County, Montana, providing a plausible backdrop for a story that takes place after the nuclear fallout. This temporal placement is confirmed through various in-game references and narrative cues, cementing Far Cry 6’s position as a sequel, of sorts, in the overarching, albeit loosely connected, Far Cry timeline.
Understanding the Far Cry Universe
The Far Cry franchise, while delivering distinct stories and settings with each installment, exists within a shared, albeit sometimes fractured, universe. Understanding how the games interconnect (or don’t) is key to appreciating the narrative choices and subtle nods that developers weave into each title.
The series generally avoids direct, sequential storytelling, opting instead for an anthology approach. This means that while certain characters, events, or themes might recur, each game offers a self-contained experience that doesn’t require prior knowledge of other Far Cry titles. However, eagle-eyed players will often spot Easter eggs and connections that enrich the overall lore.
The Collapse: A Pivotal Event
The “Collapse” – the nuclear exchange that concludes Far Cry 5 and sets the stage for Far Cry New Dawn – is arguably the most significant connecting thread between recent Far Cry games. While Far Cry 6 doesn’t explicitly delve into the aftermath of the Collapse in the same way as New Dawn, its existence as a post-Collapse story is significant. Yara’s relative isolation and the sociopolitical climate depicted in the game suggest a world that has moved on (or is attempting to move on) from the global catastrophe.
Standalone Stories with Shared DNA
The Far Cry games are more like thematic cousins than direct siblings. They share a love for exotic locales, charismatic villains, and open-world mayhem. This shared DNA gives the series a consistent feel, even as each game presents a unique narrative and set of challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Far Cry Timeline
Here are some frequently asked questions that help clarify the relationship between Far Cry 6 and other titles in the franchise, helping you navigate the often-murky waters of the Far Cry timeline:
1. Do I need to play Far Cry 5 to understand Far Cry 6?
No, you don’t need to play Far Cry 5 to enjoy or understand Far Cry 6. The story of Far Cry 6 is self-contained, focusing on Dani Rojas’s fight against Anton Castillo’s oppressive regime in Yara. While there are minor references to past events in the Far Cry universe, they don’t impact your ability to grasp the main narrative.
2. Are there any direct character connections between Far Cry 5 and Far Cry 6?
While there aren’t any major character overlaps, some minor characters or references to characters from previous games do appear. Juan Cortez, a supporting character in Far Cry 6, has links to previous antagonists within the franchise. The Pagan Min DLC for Far Cry 6 also sheds light on the events of Far Cry 4 and how they lead to the events of Far Cry 5.
3. How does the ending of Far Cry 5 affect the Far Cry universe timeline?
The ending of Far Cry 5, particularly the “Resist” ending (considered the canon ending), results in a nuclear apocalypse. This event, known as “The Collapse,” has ripple effects throughout the Far Cry timeline. While Far Cry 6 doesn’t directly deal with the fallout in the same way as Far Cry New Dawn, it establishes itself as taking place after this event.
4. Is Far Cry New Dawn a direct sequel to Far Cry 5?
Yes, Far Cry New Dawn is a direct sequel to Far Cry 5, specifically picking up the story after the “Resist” ending and the subsequent nuclear apocalypse. It focuses on the rebuilding of Hope County in the aftermath of the Collapse.
5. Where does Far Cry Primal fit into the overall timeline?
Far Cry Primal takes place in 10,000 BCE, making it the earliest game chronologically in the Far Cry series. It’s a standalone title with no narrative connections to the other games.
6. What about Far Cry Blood Dragon?
Far Cry Blood Dragon is an alternate timeline set in a dystopian, neon-drenched future version of 2007. It’s a satirical take on 1980s action movies and is considered separate from the main Far Cry continuity.
7. Are all Far Cry villains connected?
While the Far Cry games are connected, most of the villains stand alone. There are some links, though, like the Pagan Min DLC that sheds light on what happens in the story. Some villains may have indirect ties, creating a sense of a shared history or influence within the Far Cry world.
8. Is Far Cry 6 the worst Far Cry game?
Whether Far Cry 6 is the “worst” Far Cry game is subjective and depends on individual player preferences. Some critics and players have noted that it felt repetitive or lacked the staying power of previous installments, while others appreciated its expansive world and charismatic villain.
9. Which Far Cry game is considered the best?
Far Cry 3 and Far Cry 5 are often considered standout titles in the series. Far Cry 3 is praised for its innovative gameplay and captivating narrative, while Far Cry 5 is lauded for its refined gameplay, memorable antagonists, and organic open-world exploration.
10. Will there be a Far Cry 7?
Yes, Ubisoft has announced that they are working on a Far Cry 7, which is slated for release in 2025.
11. Where is Far Cry 7 rumored to take place?
Rumors suggest that Far Cry 7 might explore new locations and gameplay mechanics, potentially moving away from the established Dunia engine.
12. Are the maps in each Far Cry game connected geographically?
No, each Far Cry game features a distinct and geographically separate map. While the games share similar gameplay mechanics and thematic elements, their settings are not connected.
13. Is there an official Far Cry timeline?
Ubisoft hasn’t released a fully comprehensive, official Far Cry timeline. The series is best viewed as an anthology, with each game offering a standalone experience within a shared universe.
14. Can I keep playing Far Cry 6 after the ending?
Yes, you can continue playing Far Cry 6 after completing the main story. This allows you to explore the world further, complete side missions, and collect any remaining items.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the development of games like Far Cry?
The game development is very complex and requires a lot of effort and creativity. If you are interested in knowing more about games and learning more, visit the website of the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Conclusion
While Far Cry 6 doesn’t heavily rely on the events of Far Cry 5 for its core narrative, it definitively takes place after them. The game continues the tradition of delivering standalone stories within a shared universe, offering players a unique and engaging experience regardless of their familiarity with previous Far Cry titles. The Far Cry series is an interesting subject to study and learn, the game is enjoyable and well-developed.