Just Cause 4: Overview & Critic Reception

Gameplay

Just Cause 4 is built around Rico's wingsuit and customizable grapple hook in an open world with extreme weather. Wikipedia and Steam describe tornadoes, blizzards, sandstorms and lightning storms. The Air Lifter, the first grapple mod you unlock, attaches an inflatable bubble to an object by a tow cable, and several can be attached to one target. You can also fight alongside AI-controlled allies in frontline battles.

Story and missions

The story follows Rico as he investigates his father's links to the Black Hand and leads the Army of Chaos against the Illapa Project, a weather-weapon program. Critics criticised the story, mission design, cutscenes and voice acting, and the game also faced criticism for graphical downgrades from earlier entries (Wikipedia).

Reception

Metacritic scores range from 65 to 70. Critics praised the open world, controls, graphics and soundtrack. Square Enix said sales fell short of expectations, and the game won the 2019 Webby Award for Action Game.

Expansions

Three expansions were released. Per Steam, Dare Devils of Destruction has you drive weaponized vehicles and take on rival gangs across explosive challenges. In Los Demonios, Rico and Javi investigate an ancient temple off the coast of Solís, where a demonic force is released. In Danger Rising, Rico gets a prototype hoverboard and sets out to take down the Agency after learning it plans to eliminate him; Tom Sheldon joins him. Prices change often, so check the store page for current offers.

Verdict

A divisive entry: well regarded for its open-world sandbox and controls, less so for its story and mission design.

Pros & Cons