Far Cry® Primal

Developer: Ubisoft
Release: Feb 29th 2016
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
Immersive
Innovative
Atmospheric
Technical Issues
Repetitive
Far Cry® Primal Poster

" Innovative action-adventure with prehistoric beast taming but repetitive combat and missions "

Far Cry® Primal Review

Far Cry Primal is a unique spin-off in the Far Cry series that transports players to a prehistoric world set in 10,000 BCE. Unlike traditional Far Cry games, it replaces firearms with primitive weapons like spears, bows, and clubs, emphasizing survival, crafting, and tribe-building mechanics. Players assume the role of Takkar, a hunter who tames beasts and leads his tribe through hostile environments. The game features a richly detailed open world, dynamic weather, and a constructed prehistoric language, enhancing immersion.

While the game is praised for its atmospheric setting, innovative gameplay mechanics, and immersive sound design, it has notable drawbacks. Combat can feel bare-bones and sometimes unfair, and the story is considered present but not particularly strong. Technical issues related to Ubisoft's mandatory launcher and online requirements frustrate many players. Despite these flaws, Far Cry Primal remains a rewarding experience for survival and Far Cry fans seeking a fresh take on the franchise.

Highlights

Players highly praise Far Cry Primal's immersive prehistoric atmosphere, including its detailed environment and authentic sound design. The ability to tame and command beasts like sabertooths and wolves adds strategic depth and excitement to gameplay. The game’s crafting and tribe-building systems encourage exploration and progression, while the survival mechanics challenge players to stay alert. The constructed language and tribal culture enhance the unique narrative experience. Many consider it one of the most creative and cinematic entries in the Far Cry series.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the bare-bones and sometimes frustrating combat system, which can feel repetitive and unfair. The storyline is viewed as adequate but lacking depth compared to other Far Cry titles. Several players express annoyance with the mandatory Ubisoft launcher and online connectivity, which causes technical difficulties and detracts from the experience. Repetitive mission design and limited enemy variety also reduce long-term engagement. Some find the early game overly difficult and the game's mechanics less polished than expected.

Pros

  • Unique prehistoric setting offers a refreshing break from typical Far Cry games.
  • Taming and commanding beasts adds exciting strategic gameplay elements.
  • Immersive sound design and constructed language enhance atmosphere.
  • Detailed open world with dynamic weather and diverse environments.
  • Crafting and tribe-building systems promote exploration and progression.
  • Survival mechanics provide satisfying challenges and tension.
  • Multiple difficulty settings cater to both casual and hardcore players.

Cons

  • Mandatory Ubisoft launcher causes frequent technical and login issues.
  • Combat system is simplistic, sometimes unfair, and can become repetitive.
  • Storyline is present but lacks depth and memorable character development.
  • Repetitive mission objectives and limited enemy variety reduce engagement.
  • Early game difficulty spike can frustrate new players.
  • Lack of multiplayer or large-scale tribal battles limits gameplay scope.
  • Some players find the constructed language creates narrative distance.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

The award-winning Far Cry franchise returns with its innovative open world gameplay, bringing together massive beasts, breathtaking environments, and unpredictable savage encounters. Welcome to the Stone Age, a time of danger and adventure.

Release Date Feb 29th 2016
Publisher Ubisoft
Developer Ubisoft
Required Age 17+
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (11,880)
86% Positive 14% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
74