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CRITIK

Just Cause 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Just Cause 3
Item: Just Cause 3
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Crime, Open World, Single Player

AvailableNov 30, 2015

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperAvalanche Studios

Overview

The Mediterranean republic of Medici is suffering under the brutal control of General Di Ravello, a dictator with an insatiable appetite for power. Enter Rico Rodriguez, a man on a mission to destroy the General’s hold on power by any means necessary. With over 400 square miles of complete freedom from sky to seabed and a huge arsenal of weaponry, gadgets and vehicles, prepare to unleash chaos in the most creative and explosive ways you can imagine.

Elsewhere

7.2

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

74%

Negative (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Just Cause 3 has received mixed reviews from critics. Some positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the game's ability to provide a backdrop for the chaotic gameplay and action sequences. GameCrate appreciates how the game features a familiar storyline of overthrowing a dictator but compensates with inventiveness. PCWorld notes that the story's tonal consistency adds to the overall chaotic gameplay experience, enhancing the player's immersion in the world of Medici. On the negative side, several critics point out that the story in Just Cause 3 lacks depth and fails to engage players on a meaningful level. Dealspwn describes the story as mere window dressing to the carnage, with Rico being more of a walking accent than a well-developed character. Metro GameCentral criticizes the story for being uninteresting and lacking depth, with a weak protagonist and uninspired plot. Forbes goes as far as mentioning that the story missions can be skipped almost entirely, indicating a lack of compelling narrative content. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the story in Just Cause 3 is not a strong point of the game. While some appreciate its role in setting the stage for the explosive gameplay, many find it lacking in depth and character development. Critics like Game Informer and TrueAchievements acknowledge the minimalistic approach to storytelling, with the focus primarily on action and destruction. The general sentiment is that the story serves as a backdrop for the mayhem and chaos that players can unleash in the game world, rather than being a central element that drives player engagement. The varying opinions on the story reflect a divided view on its importance in a game that prioritizes open-world exploration and creative destruction over narrative depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Just Cause 3's story receives mixed reviews: Critics praise its chaotic backdrop but criticize lack of depth and character development. While some appreciate its role in setting the stage for explosive gameplay, many find it lacking in narrative content. Overall, the consensus is that the story serves as a backdrop for mayhem and chaos, with varying opinions on its importance in a game focused on open-world exploration and destruction.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Just Cause 3 are overwhelmingly positive. Many reviewers praise the game for its emphasis on creative destruction and chaos, with a wide array of tools and mechanics to approach objectives in unique ways. Critics like Dealspwn and Gaming Age highlight the variety of destructive options available, including grappling hooks, parachutes, wingsuits, and various vehicles, which encourage different approaches to keep the gameplay feeling fresh. The ability to liberate locations through satisfying destruction, as mentioned by The Digital Fix and God is a Geek, adds to the enjoyment of the gameplay experience. The freedom to blow things up in creative ways, as emphasized by TrueAchievements and Gameplanet, is a key aspect that resonates positively with many critics. On the downside, some critics point out issues with the gameplay of Just Cause 3. Arcade Sushi and Metro GameCentral criticize the repetitive and boring missions that detract from the overall experience. IGN Italia mentions that the main activities of liberating provinces by destroying structures can become repetitive over time. IGN, in both the Xbox One and PS4 reviews, highlights frame rate drops below 30 frames per second, impacting vehicle control and wingsuit usage. The Jimquisition also notes that the gameplay can consist of repetitive tasks and destruction, which may become tiring for some players. Additionally, some critics like games(TM) and Slant Magazine mention that the gameplay can lack depth and become repetitive after extended playtime. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Just Cause 3 excels in providing players with a sandbox of fun and chaos, offering a plethora of tools and mechanics to unleash creative destruction. The game's emphasis on freedom, variety, and player agency is widely appreciated, as seen in the positive remarks from critics like Game Rant, Push Square, and Twinfinite. While there are criticisms regarding repetitive missions and occasional technical issues, the overall sentiment leans towards the game's strengths in delivering an entertaining and explosive gameplay experience that allows players to wreak havoc in a dynamic and engaging open-world environment.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics love the creative chaos and freedom in Just Cause 3's gameplay, praising its variety of destructive options and satisfying liberation missions. However, some critics find the missions repetitive and mention technical issues like frame rate drops. Despite these drawbacks, the game is celebrated for its fun and explosive sandbox experience, offering players a dynamic open-world to unleash havoc in unique ways.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In terms of positives, several critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Just Cause 3. EGM highlighted the richly detailed island nation of Medici with its Mediterranean-inspired design, expansive vistas, and destructible environments contributing to the visual spectacle. TrueAchievements and Gameplanet also commended the game for its impressive explosions, destruction, and physics, with vast open worlds featuring a variety of vehicles and environments. The Digital Fix and DarkZero lauded the large and beautiful world of Medici, featuring gorgeous landscapes and explosive visuals, while Digital Spy and Gameplanet appreciated the vivid Mediterranean landscape and colorful vibrant locations. These critics collectively acknowledged the beauty and scale of the game's visuals, especially during chaotic moments like explosions, and the detailed environments that added to the immersive experience. On the other hand, several critics pointed out various negatives regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Just Cause 3. Dealspwn and Metro GameCentral criticized the game for experiencing sluggish frame rates, particularly in built-up areas and during explosions, leading to technical performance issues and disappointing experiences. IGN and TheSixthAxis highlighted occasional frame rate issues, texture pop-in, and low-frame rate motion blur that smeared the otherwise attractive visuals. Softpedia and GameSpot mentioned widespread problems affecting the game on all platforms, such as frame rate drops, optimization issues, technical glitches, and rough edges that detracted from the overall visual spectacle. These critics expressed concerns about the performance issues and lack of polish that hindered the game's graphical presentation and overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Just Cause 3 is mixed. While the game received praise for its beautiful landscapes, explosive visuals, destructible environments, and vibrant locations from critics like EGM, TrueAchievements, and Gameplanet, it also faced criticism for technical issues, frame rate drops, optimization problems, and occasional performance issues as highlighted by Dealspwn, IGN, and Softpedia. The contrasting opinions reflect a divide between the stunning visual aspects of the game and the hindrances caused by technical shortcomings, leading to a somewhat polarizing reception among reviewers. Despite the impressive world design and detailed environments, the presence of frame rate issues and technical glitches served as a significant drawback for some critics, impacting the overall experience of exploring the vast open world of Medici in Just Cause 3.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praised Just Cause 3 for its stunning graphics, explosive visuals, and immersive world design, but also criticized it for technical issues like frame rate drops and optimization problems. The game's visuals wowed some reviewers but disappointed others due to performance hiccups, creating a mixed reception among critics.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

27%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Just Cause 3 have received mixed reviews from critics. Game Rant and The Digital Fix praised the sound design for its impressive gun and explosion sounds, describing it as loud, bombastic, and fitting for the over-the-top action of the game. Additionally, Impulsegamer highlighted David Tennant's voice acting as a standout element, adding to the entertainment value of the game. NZGamer also commended the cinematic soundtrack, noting its ability to complement the summer blockbuster set pieces effectively. On the other hand, some critics had reservations about the sound design and music of Just Cause 3. Xbox Achievements found the soundtrack to be nice but not particularly outstanding, while Softpedia expressed disappointment in the voice acting and soundtrack, suggesting that players may prefer to play their own music to enhance the experience. Slant Magazine mentioned some impressive moments in terms of sound design but did not provide further details. Overall, the opinions on the sound design and music of Just Cause 3 are varied. While some critics appreciated specific aspects such as the impactful audio effects, impressive explosions, and standout voice acting, others felt that the soundtrack and voice performances were lacking. The consensus among critics seems to be that while Just Cause 3 excels in certain areas of sound design and music, there are also areas where it falls short of expectations. Critics like GameCrate and PSX Extreme highlighted both positive and negative aspects, indicating a balanced view of the game's audio elements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed reviews on Just Cause 3's sound design and music. Some praised the explosive sounds and David Tennant's voice acting, while others found the soundtrack lacking. Overall, opinions vary with some highlighting the impactful audio effects and standout voice acting, while others feel the soundtrack falls short.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Just Cause 3 received a mix of positive feedback from critics. GameCrate and Xbox Achievements both praised the voicework, with GameCrate specifically highlighting Mario's character as memorable. Washington Post also commended the voice actors for delivering their lines with enthusiasm, adding depth to the characters. Additionally, Impulsegamer appreciated the entertaining and cleverly written interactions of the minor characters, with David Tennant's performance standing out. These positive aspects indicate that the voice acting succeeded in bringing the characters to life and enhancing the overall experience for some reviewers. On the other hand, there were criticisms regarding the voice acting in Just Cause 3. DarkZero pointed out that the dialogue and cutscenes felt disjointed and did not work well, potentially detracting from the immersion of the game. Softpedia was unimpressed by the voice acting, suggesting that it did not positively contribute to the overall experience. PSX Extreme also noted that while the voice performances were solid overall, the protagonist Rico was not well-received by the reviewer. These negative opinions highlight areas where the voice acting may have fallen short in terms of consistency, believability, or character portrayal. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Just Cause 3 is somewhat divided. While some reviewers appreciated the efforts put into the performances and the entertainment value they added to the game, others found issues with the execution and impact of the voice acting on the overall experience. Push Square's observation that the voice acting had improved compared to the previous game suggests that there may have been efforts to address some of the shortcomings. In conclusion, while the voice acting in Just Cause 3 had its strengths in bringing characters to life and providing entertainment, there were also criticisms regarding coherence and impact, resulting in a mixed reception among critics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Voice acting in Just Cause 3 received mixed feedback from critics. Some praised the voicework for bringing characters to life and adding depth, while others criticized it for disjointed dialogue and unconvincing performances, especially by the protagonist Rico. Despite some improvements over the previous game, opinions vary on the overall impact of the voice acting, leading to a divided consensus among reviewers.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

40%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of positives for the Xbox One version of Just Cause 3, some critics like Xbox Achievements appreciate the scale of the open world, which helps mitigate issues like glitches and physics problems. Additionally, some reviewers like EGM mention that while there are occasional framerate issues and long loading times during intense action sequences, these issues are considered minor and do not significantly detract from the overall experience. On the flip side, the Xbox One version of Just Cause 3 received significant criticism for its technical performance. Critics like Gaming Age and Game Rant highlight significant performance hiccups, including long load times, framerate drops, and game-breaking glitches that negatively affect the gameplay experience. The Digital Fix and TheSixthAxis also mention issues such as severe frame-rate drops, gameplay glitches, and long loading times that hamper the overall experience. These technical issues like crashes, long loading times, and frame rate drops were consistent complaints across multiple reviews, indicating a lack of polish and stability on the Xbox One platform. Overall, the consensus among critics for Just Cause 3's technical performance across all platforms is predominantly negative. While some platforms like PC had specific issues such as inconsistent frame rates and poor optimization, the general sentiment was that the game suffered from technical problems like long loading times, frequent crashes, frame rate drops, and gameplay glitches. Critics like GameSpot and The Jimquisition highlight issues with bugs, bad AI, inconsistent behavior, and technical issues such as missing gun sounds and freezes. The general consensus is that Just Cause 3's technical performance fell short of expectations, impacting the overall enjoyment and immersion of the game for players on all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praise the scale of the open world in the Xbox One version of Just Cause 3, but technical issues like long loading times, framerate drops, and game-breaking glitches dampen the experience. Consistent complaints across multiple reviews indicate a lack of polish and stability on the Xbox One platform, leading to a predominantly negative consensus on the game's technical performance across all platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Just Cause 3 are varied, with many highlighting several positive aspects. Critics like EGM, GameCrate, and TrueAchievements commend the game for offering a wide array of challenges, collectibles, and upgrades that keep players engaged for extended periods. Game Rant and Xbox Achievements also appreciate the motivation provided by the challenges and side activities in the game. Additionally, TheSixthAxis and We Got This Covered mention the presence of additional challenges, gear mods, and unlockable content that contribute to the replay value of Just Cause 3. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the repetitive nature of the gameplay, which can impact the overall replay value of the game. Metro GameCentral and IGN Italia note the repetitive missions and lack of variety in gameplay activities as potential drawbacks that may limit the game's lasting appeal. Critics like Kill Screen and Slant Magazine emphasize the tedious and monotonous aspects of the challenges, which could lead to diminishing enjoyment over time. Furthermore, critics such as Gameplanet and PlayStation LifeStyle highlight the potential tedium that may arise from the repetitive missions and intense moments in the game, affecting its replayability. Overall, while Just Cause 3 offers a plethora of content and challenges that contribute to its replay value, the game's repetitive nature and lack of variety in missions and activities are recurring concerns among critics. Despite some mixed opinions on the game's lasting appeal, the addictive gameplay loop, fun sandbox experience, and the freedom to approach missions in various ways are aspects that critics like ZTGD and Twinfinite appreciate, enhancing the overall replay value for players seeking creative destruction and chaos. The inclusion of challenges, gear mods, and unlockable content also adds depth and variety to the gameplay experience, making Just Cause 3 a title that can provide hours of entertainment for those who enjoy exploring its open-world environment and experimenting with its mechanics.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on Just Cause 3's replay value. While some praise its challenges and content variety, others criticize its repetitive gameplay and lack of mission diversity. Despite these concerns, the game's addictive gameplay loop, sandbox experience, and freedom to approach missions creatively earn appreciation from some critics. Ultimately, Just Cause 3 offers hours of entertainment for players who enjoy exploring its open-world environment and experimenting with its mechanics.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

46%

Mixed (50-79)

52%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Just Cause 3 has garnered praise from several critics for its chaotic and explosive gameplay, offering players a vast open world filled with opportunities for mayhem and destruction. Critics like Dealspwn and Game Over Online commend the game for its wide range of destructive options and comedic effect, making it a fun and inventive experience. The game's beautiful world, entertaining core gameplay mechanics, and exciting explosions, as highlighted by GameCrate and Game Rant, contribute to its appeal. Additionally, the game's emphasis on action and mechanics over story, as noted by Softpedia and Forbes, allows players to engage in destructively fun sandbox experiences. On the flip side, Just Cause 3 has faced criticism for its technical issues, repetitive gameplay, and lack of depth in story and characters. Critics such as Metro GameCentral and The Digital Fix point out the game's repetitive missions, uninteresting game world, and technical performance issues on consoles, which hinder the overall experience. IGN Italia and Slant Magazine highlight the lack of compelling characters, repetitive gameplay, and lackluster rewards, while The Escapist and Toronto Sun mention the dull campaign and technical problems that weigh down the game's potential. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Just Cause 3 is mixed. While some critics appreciate the game's chaotic fun, entertaining gameplay, and potential for explosive chaos, others are critical of its technical shortcomings, repetitive missions, and lack of depth in storytelling. The game seems to excel in providing mindless fun and creative destruction, as acknowledged by GamingTrend and Hardcore Gamer, but falls short in delivering a fully immersive and polished experience. Despite its flaws, Just Cause 3 manages to offer a unique sandbox experience for players who enjoy causing chaos and destruction, as highlighted by various critics like EGM and Shacknews. Ultimately, the game's success appears to hinge on players' willingness to overlook its technical issues in favor of engaging in unadulterated fun and creativity.

TL;DR

Just Cause 3 praised for chaotic gameplay and explosive fun, but criticized for technical issues and lackluster story. Critics love the mayhem and destruction, but point out repetitive missions and dull characters. Mixed reviews highlight the game's strengths in mindless fun and creative chaos, but note its flaws in delivering a fully immersive experience. Despite its shortcomings, Just Cause 3 offers a unique sandbox experience for players who enjoy causing chaos and destruction.

CRITIK

Reviews

163 reviews found

Forbes

PlayStation 4

Dec 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives Just Cause 3 a score of 9.5/10 and describes it as a massive success, stating that there are so few things about the game that the reviewer would want to change.

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EGM

Xbox One

Nov 30, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 may not surpass its predecessor in every aspect, but it excels in providing players with creative freedom and a vast open world filled with opportunities for chaotic gameplay. Despite some technical issues, the game offers a highly enjoyable experience for those who embrace its sandbox mayhem.

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 4

Dec 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is a great game with issues like long load times and connectivity problems. Despite these issues, the gameplay offers unadulterated fun and creativity for players willing to overlook the technical problems.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Dec 4, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is a great game to have mindless fun with, despite its technical issues.

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NZGamer

PlayStation 4

Dec 13, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is described as an incredibly fun game with crisp visuals, clever soundtrack, and a lighter tone than other similar games. Despite technical issues and lack of depth in story, it offers a blast of chaotic gameplay and destruction.

ZTGD

Xbox One

Dec 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 delivers on all levels for fans of destruction and offers a fun sandbox experience. However, those who found the previous entry repetitive won't find much to change their mind.

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GameCrate

Xbox One

Dec 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is a fun and inventive game with a beautiful world, despite some technical setbacks.

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 4

Dec 14, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is praised for its chaotic fun, beautiful visuals, satisfying movement, and entertaining writing and voice acting, but is criticized for significant technical issues with long loading times and questionable protagonist actions.

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Brash Games

PlayStation 4

Jan 16, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Just Cause 3 is one of the most satisfying experiences of 2015 and recommends everyone to try it.

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Shacknews

Nov 30, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Just Cause 3 is a welcome addition to the open world genre, offering plenty of destruction and freedom. It is ranked among the best open world games of the current generation.

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