Ubisoft’s Far Cry franchise is set to receive two new installments, according to recent reports from Insider Gaming. These additions to the popular first-person shooter series are currently slated for a 2026 release, a delay from their initial 2025 target. The shift in release date highlights the challenges facing Ubisoft, which recently saw setbacks with the delayed launch of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, impacting its projected earnings and share prices. This delay also affects the release of the next Far Cry titles.
One of the upcoming games, codenamed “Blackbird” and widely anticipated as Far Cry 7, is being developed by Ubisoft Montreal using the Snowdrop Engine. This new entry promises a unique twist on the familiar Far Cry formula. Drawing inspiration from the Nintendo 64 classic Majora’s Mask, Far Cry 7 introduces a 72-hour countdown mechanic. Players will race against time to rescue their family from a deadly cult, creating a sense of urgency and tension rarely seen in the series. The inclusion of this time-sensitive element is a significant departure from previous installments and aligns with current trends in gaming which are trending toward more replayable content.
Beyond the compelling narrative, Far Cry 7 is also touted for significant improvements in movement and traversal. The game is said to boast enhanced locomotion mechanics, emphasizing speed, vaulting, sliding, and agile movement. This focus on rapid traversal aligns with the growing popularity of fast-paced, action-oriented games, a trend amplified by recent successes in the genre. The improved physics engine promises to make these maneuvers fluid and immersive, creating a more dynamic and exhilarating gameplay experience. This is a major development for the series and one which fans will be looking forward to.
The second game, codenamed “Maverick,” is described as a multiplayer extraction shooter. While details remain scarce, this suggests a move towards the increasingly popular genre of cooperative online gameplay. The extraction shooter genre is experiencing a surge in popularity, mirroring trends in online gaming and catering to the demand for engaging, team-based experiences. The potential success of Maverick hinges on Ubisoft’s ability to craft a unique and compelling experience within this competitive landscape.
The delays affecting both Far Cry 7 and Maverick underline the challenges faced by Ubisoft. The company’s current financial position suggests caution, leading to the postponement of these titles. The delay of Assassin’s Creed Shadows undoubtedly played a role in this decision. While disappointing for eager fans, the decision to prioritize quality over meeting arbitrary deadlines aligns with a growing trend of developers focusing on delivering polished, bug-free experiences. This approach is increasingly favored among players who are more likely to forgive a late release than endure a subpar experience at launch. Ubisoft’s decision to postpone these games shows they are learning from their past and are making a move to improve the quality of their releases and increase profitability in the future.
Ubisoft has yet to officially announce these projects. However, the information provided offers exciting glimpses into the future of the Far Cry franchise, suggesting innovations and expansions within the series and signaling their move into popular gaming trends. The upcoming games promise thrilling gameplay, enhanced mechanics and an exciting twist on the series’ well-established formula.
