Status:
Complete and Play Tested
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Far Cry: Primal (PS4) Review
Far Cry: Primal takes Ubisofts long-running open-world FPS series back to the Stone Age. Swapping out guns and explosions for spears, clubs, and sabretooth tigers, it offers a bold setting shift with familiar mechanics. While the prehistoric world is visually stunning and immersive, the game sometimes feels too safe in its design, echoing its predecessors a little too closely under a new skin.
Gameplay & Mechanics
| Feature | Description | Verdict |
|---|
| Combat System | Melee-focused combat with clubs, spears, bows, and primitive tools. | Satisfying but occasionally repetitive. |
| Taming Beasts | Tame wild animals like wolves, bears, and sabretooths to aid in combat. | A standout and fun mechanic. |
| Crafting & Progression | Craft weapons, gear, and village upgrades using collected resources. | Deep but grind-heavy. |
| Exploration | Open-world environment filled with wildlife, enemies, and secrets. | Engaging world design, though somewhat empty in spots. |
Gameplay is solid and functional, though not as varied as other entries in the series.
Story & Characters
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Plot: Set in 10,000 B.C., you play as Takkar, a hunter from the Wenja tribe, rising to become the Beast Master and lead his people against rival tribes.
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Tone: Serious and survival-focused, with minimal comic relief.
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Characters: Takkar and his tribe have distinct personalities, but the narrative lacks emotional depth.
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Language: Fully voiced in a fictional primitive tongue with subtitles, enhancing immersion.
The story serves more as a backdrop for exploration and conflict rather than a deeply engaging narrative.
World & Design
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Environment: The lush, untamed land of Oros is filled with forests, rivers, mountains, and caves.
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Wildlife: From mammoths to saber-toothed cats, the world feels alive and dangerous.
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Tribal Design: Creative and atmospheric, showcasing early human culture, tools, and rituals.
Oros is the true starvibrant, dangerous, and beautifully realized.
Graphics & Presentation
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Visuals: Strong environment design, detailed flora/fauna, and dynamic lighting.
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Animations: Smooth transitions in combat and animal interactions.
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UI: Clean and thematically fitting, with an intuitive interface.
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Performance: Stable framerate, minor bugs, and good load times.
Its one of the more visually distinct Far Cry entries, especially thanks to its setting.
Sound & Music
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Sound Design: Rich with animal calls, tribal drums, and environmental audio cues.
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Voice Work: Convincing performances in a fictional language, adding authenticity.
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Music: Tribal percussion-heavy soundtrack that complements the setting well.
The audio landscape is immersive and well-crafted.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Unique and immersive prehistoric setting
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Taming animals adds tactical variety
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Gorgeous, dynamic world filled with life
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Solid crafting and survival systems
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Strong atmosphere with authentic voicework
Cons
Story is thin and lacks momentum
Combat can feel repetitive over time
Feels like a reskinned Far Cry 4 in structure
Some side content is filler-heavy
No traditional multiplayer or co-op modes
Final Verdict
Far Cry: Primal is a bold experiment that largely pays off thanks to its unique setting and immersive atmosphere. While it doesnt reinvent the franchise formula, its a refreshing change of pace. If youre intrigued by the idea of surviving in a world without guns, cars, or modern techand commanding a sabretooththis adventure is worth the hunt.
Score: 7.8 / 10 A visually stunning Stone Age survival with familiar gameplay bones.
