Far Cry Instincts: Predator is actually two games in one. In addition to a graphically remade version of the original
Instincts, it also includes an expanded
Evolution mode. Other additions include new weapons, vehicles, a handful of multiplayer maps and a new multiplayer mode called Seek and Secure. In other words, this is pretty much the same package as the recently released
Far Cry: Instincts Evolution on Xbox, only prettier and instead of one game, you’re getting two.
The initial campaign, Instincts, follows an ex-commando turned boat captain, Jack Carver, as he finds himself stuck on an island inhabited by a scientist whose experiments involve creating animal-human hybrids. As luck would have it, Jack is subjected to one of these experiments and gains animal powers, such as enhanced eye-sight and smelling, as well as claws. From here, the gameplay is open-ended, while sticking to a slightly linear path. All you’re given are mission goals and the tools to complete them. How you actually do so is completely up to you.
In order to unlock Evolution, you must first complete the single-player game. Evolution offers the same open-ended exploration, though the experience is a little shorter and not quite as well put together. Once again you’re Jack, only this time you’re hired by a woman named Kade who asks him to serve as protection for an arms-smuggling deal she is part of. As they usually do, things go up in smoke and Jack finds himself once again stalking through the jungle fighting rebels and more animal-human hybrids.
Evolution doesn’t match up to Instincts. It is fun to play, but shorter and most of the experiences feel a little too similar to what’s found in Instincts. The story isn’t as good as Instincts’ either. Rather than slowly learning to use your animal powers, everything is unlocked from the start. So, unless you just can’t get enough of Far Cry, the single-player side isn’t that compelling.
Multiplayer and Map Editor are Predator’s saving graces. Multiplayer games can be played with either four player offline or 16 over Live. All of the multiplayer modes from Instincts are included and joined by a new mode, Seek and Secure. This mode basically boils down to two teams trying to hold strategic points on a map. While it may not sound all that interesting, the addition of larger maps and new vehicles makes it worth playing provided you can actually get into a game where people are interested in working together.
Predator’s map editor is another great addition. The included tool set is very user-friendly, and includes all of the items from Instinct’s editor, as well as new items like zip-lines and new terrain types. If you’re a fan of map-making, you’ll find a lot to like. Even if you’re not, the set up is so user friendly that you just might find yourself spending more time making maps than playing the game. And, once you’ve completed your map, you can offer it to other players for download.
