Internet gets its hands on the source code of the original Far Cry

Ubisoft's 2004 open-world shooter game Far Cry made waves with its outstanding graphics featuring large, eye-catching outdoor environments. Despite its age, the game continues to impress with its enchanting visuals and meticulous attention to detail, as evident in the gorgeously represented tropical islands.

Now, with the source code out in the wild, eager gamers are analyzing the back-end workings of this classic project.

It's important to note that the leaked source code is incomplete. It lacks some key files and assets, making it a challenge to run the game successfully. However, the modders familiar with the CryEngine v1.34 software used to build the game could reverse engineer it, potentially using it as a base for new fan mods and original projects.

Essentially, modders could repurpose the game's assets, creating their fan remake or adding new mechanics. In theory, they could do anything and everything with it - unless Ubisoft drops a heavy dose of justice hammer on it.

The source code, labeled "Far Cry 1.34 Complete," was uploaded to the Internet Archive near the end of June, more than a week ago, but only recently gained attention after Medeiros' Twitter post. While the title suggests the inclusion of patches, some users who have downloaded the source code suggest it's "not complete, but close." It seems some could get a debug PC version of the game running on their hardware, though it does require some effort and understanding of the code base.

The source code remains accessible on the Internet Archive, and while it's uncertain how Ubisoft will respond, we should consider that the game is nearly 20 years old. Even if Ubisoft decides to have the source code removed, the code is already widely distributed, making it virtually impossible to make a secret again.

While this leak doesn't have a catastrophic impact on Ubisoft, it's a paradise for modders. From implementing advanced graphical features to crafting entirely new mechanics, the possibilities are vast. It is a rare chance for gaming enthusiasts to delve deep into the heart of a game that revolutionized open-world shooters.

As fans wait for the release of Far Cry 7 and the still-unannounced multiplayer spin-off and the release of Netflix's Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix, this unexpected leak could spawn countless reinterpretations of the original title.

It's undeniable that this is a fascinating development in the world of gaming, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the inner workings of an iconic title.

As for Ubisoft, the company is apparently busy with a handful of Assassin's Creed projects, which, aside from the incoming Assassin's Creed: Mirage, also includes a remake of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag.