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Far Cry pc Game Reviews
Far Cry
Critic Score
Metascore: 89 Metascore out of 100
User Score  
8.6 out of 10
based on 72 reviews
Read critic reviews
How did we calculate this?
based on 129 votes
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Rate this game

A tropical paradise seethes with hidden evil in Far Cry, a cunningly detailed action shooter that pushes the boundaries of combat to shocking new levels. Freelance mariner Jack Carver is cursing the day he ever came to this island. A week ago, a brash female reporter named Valerie had offered him an incredible sum of cash to take her to this unspoiled paradise. Shortly after docking, however, Jack's boat was greeted by artillery fire from a mysterious militia group swarming about the island. With his boat destroyed, his money gone, and the gorgeous Valerie suddenly missing, Jack now finds himself facing an army of mercenaries amidst the wilds of the island, with nothing but a gun and his wits to survive. But the further he pushes into the lush jungle canopy, the stranger things become. [Ubi Soft]

PUBLISHER: Ubi Soft
DEVELOPER: Crytek Studios
GENRE(S): First-Person Shooter
PLAYERS: 8
ESRB RATING: M (Mature)
RELEASE DATE: March 23, 2004

What The Critics Said

All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...

100
Gamers Depot
The total package; outstanding gameplay, completely groundbreaking graphics, and a storyline and plot filled with surprises and heartpounding excitement. [5 1/2 "drips"]
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100
Gamezilla!
Far Cry is, in everyway, the best first-person shooter I've ever played. From the sublime, deeply textured and truly immersive graphics to meaningful audio and the type of artificial intelligence that makes you question whether you really are playing against a computer - Far Cry heralds a new age of FPS with a game that is nearly perfect in everyway.
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100
Australian GamePro
And undoubtedly the greatest feature is that which made the hanging light sway. Yes, everything in-game is based on what is perhaps the best physics ever seen in a game.
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100
G4 TV
The multiplayer modes and incredibly powerfully map editor put Far Cry over the top. As great as the graphics are, they're merely a complement to the dynamic gameplay.
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98
XGP Gaming
Not only is this new shooter one of the most beautiful-looking games ever made, but it’s quite possibly one of the best single player adventures ever.
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97
PC Gameworld
Every aspect of Far Cry bleeds quality. This is definitely one of the best games ever released, and my friends, that is saying something.
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97
Gaming Horizon
They’ve gone above and beyond my expectations of any FPS game.
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96
Gaming Illustrated
Superb in every way, technically, atmospherically, visually, sonically, it's got it all. One of the best games on the PC and one of the best games ever made full stop.
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96
RealGamer
Unlike most games the bad guys in Far Cry really do have a mind of their own so its not just a case of running through and popping the odd enemy here and there, the mercenaries in this game are highly clued up and will detect you whether you move slowly, take cover or simply make them paranoid, you will not get past these guys easily.
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96
GameZone
Without a doubt one of the best single-player FPS experiences in years.
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95
Game Chronicles
If you have the system to handle it, Far Cry is a landmark achievement in groundbreaking technology that will not only allow you to show off your expensive new hardware, but let you have one helluva time doing so.
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95
Loaded Inc
The water effects are incredible and the attention to detail in the graphics engine is unbelievable. The sound in the game is well done and the music fits perfectly.
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95
PC Gamer
Well, slap me silly, because not only does Far Cry offer utterly sensational visuals and jaw-dropping gameplay, but it also heralds the arrival of developer Crytek, which now joins id Software and Valve at the head of the shooter class... A stunning achievement. [June 2004, p.62]
95
GameSpot AU
An exceptionally good single player game, and while the multiplayer aspect is a bit shaky compared to some titles, both existing and upcoming, there's a ton of potential within the game engine for some really clever modifications.
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95
Gamers' Temple
It’s a far cry from anything that you’ve played before that will simply blow you away.
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95
Worth Playing
Overall, Crytek has done a nearly flawless job in crafting the single player campaign. The combat is extremely fun and exciting, as well as addicting. The level design is fantastic, and the pacing is never too slow.
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94
VideoGamesLife
We’re now thoroughly claustrophobic, agoraphobic and generally panophobic (afraid of everything). Far Cry has left us well and truly scarred, but after the experience it’s given us, we’re not ones to complain.
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94
3DAvenue
The best description for Far Cry would be "a game that received hype, but lived up to every last damn word of it".
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94
VGPub
It has the best A.I. ever and the best graphics to date. The replay value is great due to a unique multiplayer experience, and the wide open areas that allow a player to never follow the exact same path throughout the game.
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94
VIA Gamers Arena
Due to the numerous AI difficulty settings and the broad range of gameplay variables coupled with a solid, lengthy single player campaign, FarCry is one game that can boast a major re playability value.
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94
Warcry
The amazing game engine that renders such detail at long range without using many tricks should have companies like ID and Valve a little paranoid. With a few more triple-a titles under it’s belt, Crytek can easily become an industry giant.
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93
Game Informer
It is quite possibly the best one-player, action-intensive shooter ever. Yes, the multiplayer is good, but the true strength of this title is in the solo experience. [May 2004, p.105]
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93
PGNx Media
My new favorite shooter, which is saying something considering all of the notable additions lately. Striking visuals, high-quality AI and open-ended gameplay make for refreshing FPS game.
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93
Gamer's Hell
I love the fact that someone has finally made a game that can look truly good and take advantage of higher-end PC hardware instead of going for less detail in order to allow more people with slower PCs to run the game.
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93
Just RPG
A remarkable game, and one of the best shooters out on the market!
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93
Computer and Video Games
A bona-fide classic: a technological marvel that's as rewarding as it is beautiful. For the time being at least, it's the beating heart of the first-person shooter. [PC Zone]
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92
Armchair Empire
The realism is helped tremendously by the solid physics engine present within Crytech's Cryengine. I got untold hours of joy out of just pushing things and watching them roll or bounce down a hill.
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92
Gaming Nexus
What’s interesting about Far Cry is that it is a linear game without being overly linear. You have to address all of the problems and puzzles in the game in a specified order but how you address them is up to you.
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92
Ferrago
It's not perfect, and it doesn't really offer up anything radically new to the altar of the FPS, but it is a brilliantly written piece of computer software and it is a thoroughly engrossing and almost criminally enjoyable game to play.
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92
Gamer's Pulse
This is by far the must have shooter title of the spring and summer months for anyone who has a drive for fast paced gameplay set in well designed and beautiful to view landscape.
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92
IGN
CryTek has done a fantastic job of avoiding artificial path restriction. In the jungle, you'll never walk into an invisible wall, and almost never be hemmed in by impassible slopes that force you to take one path and one path only. There are almost always at least two distinct ways you can approach any position on the island, often times more than that.
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92
Inside Gamer Online
A magnificent game. On every level it just stays superb. The only gripe that's mentionable is just the lack of a fleshed out multiplayer mode.
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92
GameBiz
Far Cry is the total package; outstanding gameplay, completely groundbreaking graphics, and a storyline and plot filled with surprises and heart pounding excitement.
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92
GameSpot
Crytek almost delivers a knockout blow. Far Cry isn't just a stunning technical accomplishment. It's quite possibly the best single-player first-person shooter experience for the PC since "Half-Life."
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91
Game Over Online
It delivers on all fronts: graphics, story, and especially gameplay. The only downside is that those with lower end machines are going to have to drop their graphics and resolution down quite a bit to achieve an acceptable frame rate.
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91
ActionTrip
It's like being stranded right smack in the middle of an action-packed B grade movie, and while I'd probably fall asleep half way through the flick, I stayed wide awake and my adrenaline was pumping as mad while playing Far Cry.
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91
Computer Games Online RO
On the one hand we have the brilliant graphics, excellent physics and devious AI, while on the other we have the disappointing sound department, a few glitches in the AI, the save system that will probably not be to everyone’s liking and the system requirements which can prove too great for some gamers out there.
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91
TotalGames.net
This is helped by the huge amount of freedom that the player is granted. If you can see it, the odds are that you can get to it, which means that the whole island is Carver's plaything. The highest peaks can be scaled, rivers can be swam through and ditches can be hidden in.
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90
WHAM! Gaming
Other than its steep PC system requirements and the merely adequate multiplayer modes, it's hard to find any fault with this gripping gem of a shooter.
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90
AceGamez
The wide open environments and free ranging gameplay provide a thrilling experience and make up for the at times patchy AI and lack of story.
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90
1UP
Difficulty and the occasional glitch not withstanding, it's a phenomenal game with more modding and expansion potential than we've seen in years.
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90
PC Format
When Far Cry does what only it can do, it’s a genuine classic (you’ll be waiting in vain to see anything of the scale of the outdoors sections in "Doom III"). When it follows in others’ footsteps, it’s merely a highly superior genre game.
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90
Gamer.tv
Far Cry is tough, surprising and constantly engaging – creating an action game that is full of memorable moments.
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90
DailyGame
If you want a thrilling single-player FPS with the best looking graphics to date, then FarCry is for you.
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90
2404.org
It offers incredible graphics, a decent story line, great sound, and it's challenging.
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90
Adrenaline Vault
Massive non-linear playing fields, astoundingly intelligent enemies and a gorgeous setting make Far Cry a solid hit that sets the bar higher for the games that will follow it.
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90
GameSpy
Far Cry doesn't just boast cutting-edge technology and a surplus of breathtaking visuals, but also pulls off the amazing triple play of open-ended gameplay far beyond the standard A-to-B-to-C of most shooters.
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90
eToychest
If players can ignore the overly cheesy plot and horrid voice acting, and focus simply on killing bad guys and blowing things up amidst a wonderfully crafted environment then they will be in for a treat. The first person shooter has never looked so good.
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90
PC Arena
AI is above average and they're not of the “run up to you get killed” variety. Instead, they’ll try to flank you or use cover to their advantage.
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90
Cheat Code Central
The game has plenty going for it. Most notably the AI which rivals just about any human that I've played against. What is most interesting is that the AI plays fair. It doesn't have ESP.
90
Total Video Games
Quite frankly FarCry is the finest PC title we’ve played in many years...Every aspect of the game works brilliantly and combines to create one of the most immersive and captivating games we’ve ever played.
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90
Games Radar
If not for the annoying, checkpoint-based, save-game system, it would be difficult to find fault with the single player campaign at all. Multiplayer could use some work, but it will get the job done for deathmatch fans.
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89
AtomicGamer
Far Cry's excellent graphics, decent multiplayer, and good single player combat make up the meat of this game.
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86
Xequted
If you've got a high powered PC geared for gaming then Far Cry is a must buy and will really show you the definition of next generation gaming. Forget the cheesy dialogue, horrendous plot, irritating mutated enemies which resemble obese, pink monkeys with slimy bits and enjoy the beautiful graphics, intense game play and unpredictable AI.
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85
GameCritics
The shooting was fun and all, but it would have been much more satisfying had I felt like all of my murdering had been in service of something.
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83
Play Magazine
The game consistently looks and sounds incredible. [May 2004, p.60]
83
Game Revolution
It’s not gonna revolutionize the way you think of FPS gaming - that’s a job for "Half-Life 2," we hope - but Far Cry will give you a great 20-hour adrenaline shot in the arm. The impressive technology and sheer fun lead to a good choice for FPS fans with hefty rigs.
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80
Boomtown
The tacky mutants, the fact that your opponents become almost anally accurate towards the end (or on high difficulty levels), the slightly disappointing finale - all these things may mar Far Cry to various degrees, but they cannot dull its shine.
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80
GamerFeed
Forget about the delayed FPS juggernauts of "Half-Life 2" and "Doom3," and spend your hard earned dinero on a game that is as spectacularly beautiful and brilliantly executed as any FPS ever.
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80
Next Level Gaming
Let me just tell you, without joypad settings, I started to frown. Using a keyboard for games that require quick reflexes is like me eating brussel sprouts. Not going to happen.
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80
EuroGamer
In the final analysis, it just maybe lacks the creative edge and imagination that would have catapulted it into classic territory. We just didn't really care about what we were fighting our way through.
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80
Yahoo! Games
Outstanding graphically and sonically, Far Cry's gameplay doesn't quite match up to its looks. That said, the AI and imaginative set pieces make it easily the best single-player first-person shooter of the last few months.
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80
Edge Magazine
For a new developer to arrive with a game that excels in as many categories as Far Cry is a rare thing indeed. This is a uniquely beguiling game, and frequently beautiful in every sense.
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80
games(TM)
Treading a fine line between jaw-dropping realism and high-res synthetic sheen, you can't help but be impressed by the composition of the environments, and if your PC is speedy enough you're in for a real treat. [Apr 2004, p.92]
80
Gamenikki
Perhaps the most interesting feature is that intelligent creatures will not forget Mr. Carver. They may give up on finding Mr. Carver, but they never forget the presence. It's almost like Metal Gear: Twin Snakes on alert mode, except when alerted the guards never do quite get up.
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80
GamePro
Far more frustrating, though, is the pedestrian level design, which delivers frequent ambushes that rely on memorization and replay instead of stealth and skill.
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80
Computer Games Magazine
Despite some rocky stretches, FarCry delivers one of the best action game experiences of recent vintage, a superior blend of technical sophistication and gold old fashioned visceral combat. [June 2004, p.76]
76
GameShark
Coupling that with inconsistent plot coherency and questionable physics, it seems important to stress that while this is a very shiny game demonstrating a very robust engine, there is more beauty than guts here, and many players may find the colorful candy shell does not deliver as delicious a gaming experience.
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71
netjak
There is nothing here that sets it apart from the crowd in terms of gameplay, but the visual and physics aspect of the game are bar none the best available today. Far Cry is worth a look, but be warned; you are going to need a beast of a computer to run this as it was intended to be run.
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70
Computer Gaming World
Howsabout a nice whack upside the head with a tire iron for a horrific save-game feature that is simultaneously terribly conceived and idiotically implemented?
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70
GMR Magazine
People with high blood pressure might want to stay away, but if you can tolerate unreasonably difficult A.I., Far Cry will punish you. And you will like it. [June 2004, p.82]
60
Thunderbolt
Let me make this clear, through capitalization: ANY GAME THAT DOES NOT SAVE IMMEDIATELY AFTER YOU KILL A BOSS AND SEE THE ENSUING CUTSCENE HAS A BROKEN SAVE-GAME SYSTEM. I don’t care if it’s supposed to make the game more intense, it’s stupid, moronic, ridiculous, pointless and otherwise detrimental to the overall quality of the game.
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What Our Users Said

Vote Now! The average user rating for this game is 8.6 (out of 10) based on 129 User Votes
Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.

Jag gave it a9:
Only one way to describe this game...IT IS AWSOME!!! It is better that half-life 2 in my opinion. It requires a whole new kind of gameplay. The graphics are great and the AI is magnifisent. Let me tell ya their tactics hurt worse than their rifles. The only complaint I have is that if you put them on alert and you make the slightest noise they go on full alert rather than check things out a little more. you can play any way you want except for one. The classic run and gum/spray and pray tactics. Anything els such as assult, ambush,Stelth its all up to you. I got this game like two years ago and I still have so much fun with it. I even think its better than COD 4 lol. the one of the last complaints I have is that the voice acting wasn't that good and the multi-player basicly sux because the maps are so huge and there can be so little players you're pretty much just end spending most of your time looking for someone to kill. But the story is simply outstanding and the awesome environments and so much goodness that you never knew so much fun could be packed into one $20 bill. I want to punch myself for not giving it a 10 But tens are perfect and this game isn't perfect but its EXTREMELY close.

G M. gave it a4:
I saw inconsistent AI and awful "read my mind" game design that relied on ambush deaths and memorizing what ?!open-ended!? paths not to go down. There's no motivation to keep playing either as the story is sketchy at best. Weak weapon sounds make even the pretty jungle combat dull. Overall, great graphics but it's a tech demo with untested gameplay. You may give it a miss.

Gary B. gave it a10:
A good game will be played over. A great game will be played over and over. Far Cry is the game that continues to reveal new ways to accomplish the gametasks. There are almost an unlimited way to travel in the game. If you're tired of crawling through narrow tunnels, Far Cry is the answer. Great story line and graphics too.

Nik B. gave it a7:
The tropical landscapes are not only beautiful but make for an excellent tactical sneaking game. However not all of the game takes place outdoors. Indoors leaves the player without stealth and completely strips the player of any tactical advantage making it feel like a rather generic shooter at times. The human AI and base set up is also a large part of what makes the game fun an interesting, but you eventually have to fight a whole lot of mutants with simple "charge at the player" AI. The story is also One of the most shallow stories I have experienced in a long time. Despite it's many shortcomings I gave it a 7 because of the refreshing jungle combat.

Jordan M. gave it a10:
To begin i give this game a 10.... this game is so good its makes me want to touch myself. I have beaten it on its hardest difficulty lvl 3 times. each time has offered new adventures with hidden shortcuts, never before seen areas, and some stuff i never thought AI could do. I dont get why some people dont like this game, everyone i have talked to simply didnt like it because it was "too hard" and said that the AI was dumb. The amazing thing about this game is as the difficulty level rises, the AI gets better.... so if you play on a wussy difficulty lvl the AI will suck. so dont complain if you cant take the 4 bullets = dead callenge. The AI relies on sound and vision to detect you hence you can use thick underbrush and decoy noise to your advantage... if you play smart, you can kick some ass. if you run in like rambo, you are not gonna have fun.

Michael gave it a10:
Truly a great game, clearly deserving it's place with Half-Life 2 as a classic FPS.

Not Responsible gave it a5:
All it is is a rip off of the source engine and Half-Life 2 as a jungle.

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