Anticipations entered the model
- by Ben Kerry
Today, Microsoft has published its latest roundup for Xbox Game Pass, filling in some gaps between now and early February for its subscription service. The standout game here is Far Cry New Dawn, and we certainly have a truly solid addition to the library – especially with its predecessor already part of the service.
New Dawn takes place immediately after Far Cry 5, presenting “a revitalized, colorful, post-apocalyptic Hope County, Montana, 17 years following a global nuclear disaster.” If you played the prior game, you will understand exactly what this description conveys – New Dawn is a rare direct sequel in Ubisoft’s open-world FPS series. If you enjoyed FC5, then trying this on Game Pass is an obvious choice!
Another reason we believe this is a fantastic candidate for Xbox Game Pass is that, in our opinion, New Dawn received somewhat of an unfair reception at launch – and its mixed reviews were not entirely justified. Ubisoft attempted to market this as a full sequel and charged nearly full price for it, although the game shares some similarities with Far Cry 5. Viewing this adventure more as substantial DLC for FC5 offers a significantly better perspective, and you may very well enjoy its chaotic, colorful open world even more.
This vibrant open world showcases some of the best visuals you can find in this genre, the series’ consistently enjoyable shooting mechanics, an engaging overall concept for a Far Cry title, and some unique features like an ‘outpost’ to develop, as well as enhanced crafting options. Far Cry New Dawn isn’t perfect, but when seen as an engaging expansion to FC5, it is definitely worth trying on Xbox Game Pass.
Having discussed all this – New Dawn still feels like a ‘standalone’ extension of styles, and it can be enjoyed without having played its predecessor. Sure, you will gain additional context from the end of Far Cry 5, but the series is all about enjoyable open-world shooting and chaotic action at the end of the day, so we wouldn’t hesitate to dive in either way!
If this has intrigued you into considering trying Far Cry New Dawn, Ubisoft’s 2019 shooter will be available on Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass and Game Pass Standard on February 4th.
Excited to give this one a run on Xbox Game Pass next month? Share your thoughts!