A cult of fanatic Christians as opponents in the new Far Cry 5? Not everyone likes this, or at least it gives rise to trolling.
Ubisoft has introduced Far Cry 5. As opponents, they have chosen a Christian fundamentalist cult. This becomes a controversial topic in the charged climate of the USA.
For there is a rift running through the USA: On the coasts and in the big cities, many people have different views and problems than those in rural areas. The social, religious, and economic differences harbor enormous potential for conflict in a divided society.
Far Cry contains political dynamite – and trolls have lighters – For the lulz
A game that plays with this divide in the background becomes a political issue: In the eyes of some, it demonizes the hardworking, Christian-conservative rural population and turns them into villains. In the eyes of those critics, political goals are being pursued.
However, there are also people on the Internet who enjoy such a situation – in places like 4chan, a culture of “for the lulz” has emerged. Just for fun, they poke the hornet’s nests and rejoice when something happens. Political correctness and any kind of restriction on freedom of speech are the arch-enemy. There are no taboos, no consideration for feelings or sensitivities. Anonymity protects the instigators.
In this regard, Far Cry 5 is a welcome invitation. On the petition platform Change.org, a petition has now been started asking Ubisoft to stop developing Far Cry 5. The authors of the petition are called “Gamers United,” who see themselves as the voice of all American gamers – or so.
Villains in Far Cry 5 should become Islamists – Also more Black and Hispanic characters
There are calls for Ubisoft to absolutely change the villains in Far Cry 5. They are totally unrealistic. They should be Islamists, and violence from “inner-city gangs” is also on the rise.
Even if American Christians are used as villains, more racial diversity should be brought in – not just Whites at the table. There are many nationalities – Ubisoft should include a few Black and Hispanic characters.
As a tip for Ubisoft, they also suggest adapting the setting to the market. Anti-Americanism might be okay for France. But certainly not for Americans. For the US market, it would be better to set Far Cry 5 in Canada.
Petition as satire
The petition is recognizable as a biting satire with some allusions to recurring themes on 4chan like Gamergate. It is clear that this is about “for the lulz”.
Ironically, Ubisoft has at least complied with one of these demands, likely without knowing it. In an image showing a larger section of the famous cover art, a Black character is visible. Perhaps this will appease “Gamers United.”
Read more about Far Cry 5 here:
Far Cry 5: Release date & trailer – Campaign playable in co-op
