Why Do People Compare Bali to the Game Far Cry — Does It Make Sense?

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Bali is an island that many people associate with paradise vacations, jungles, beaches, and beautiful sunsets. But there’s a certain group of people—especially gamers—who, upon arriving there, suddenly exclaim, “Wow, this looks just like Far Cry!” And that’s where it gets interesting—is this just an emotional reaction, or do these two worlds really have that much in common? Let’s dive in.

What is Far Cry About Anyway?

Far Cry is a series of first-person shooter games, usually set on exotic islands or in wild, untamed nature. The game most people think of first is Far Cry 3, since it takes place on a tropical island full of jungles, waterfalls, hidden caves, ancient temples, and… bandits. The main character ends up there against his will and has to survive by fighting off local pirates and mercenaries.

Now Take a Look at Bali

If you go to Instagram or YouTube and search for “Bali,” you’ll find footage that looks like it was copied straight out of a video game: thick tropical forests, waterfalls, moss-covered abandoned buildings, hanging bridges, jungle trails, rice terraces, canyons, even volcanoes! In many places, it really does resemble Far Cry locations.

For example, if you go to the Ubud area, everything around looks like the perfect place for a secret quest. Or if you head north to the Sekumpul Waterfalls, the landscapes are so striking that you might feel like grabbing a controller and “starting a mission.” Especially if a pack of dogs wanders nearby or a biker in a mask rides past—the atmosphere really starts to feel like a game.

So What’s Similar?

• Visual similarities
  Jungles, landscapes, abandoned buildings, ancient temples, tall mountains—all of these exist both in Far Cry and in Bali.

• Sense of adventure
  Many people come to Bali not just to lie on the beach, but to chase adventures: hiking, surfing, trekking to waterfalls, spending the night in jungle huts. That vibe is very similar to Far Cry—where you don’t just watch, you feel like you’re in something wild and thrilling.

• Local rituals and culture
  The game often features shamans, ancient rituals, and mysterious tribes. In Bali, of course, everything is real and peaceful, but the temples, ceremonies, and unique culture also create a sense of mystery—especially for visitors unfamiliar with it.

And What’s Different?

Of course, Far Cry is about violence, conflict, bandits, and survival. In Bali, you’re not going to be running around with a gun rescuing your friend from captivity. It’s a calm, peaceful place where the biggest danger is getting sunburned or struggling with weak Wi-Fi in a rural village.

Also, in the game, everything is exaggerated—enemies pop up from behind every bush, missions come one after another, everything explodes and burns. In Bali, everything follows its own rhythm: chill, coconuts, sunsets, and yoga at dawn. The real atmosphere is all about harmony, not war.

So Why the Comparison?

It’s simple: visually and vibe-wise, some corners of Bali really do resemble Far Cry. Especially if someone has played the game and then visits the island, their brain naturally starts drawing those connections. It’s like watching a movie and then suddenly finding yourself in a place that looks just like a scene from it—you get a feeling of déjà vu.

Plus, there are bloggers who intentionally make videos like “Bali in Far Cry Style,” adding music, drone shots, special effects—and it creates a total illusion of being inside the game. But in reality, it’s just well-shot real life.

So Are They Identical?

No. Far Cry is a fictional world built for action and adrenaline. Bali is a real island with real culture, nature, and people. But the atmosphere, the views, and that overall feeling of freedom and adventure—that’s where the comparison comes from.

So you could say this: Bali is like Far Cry without the guns. Just you, nature, and a bunch of locations that really do make you feel like the hero of a game. Just don’t forget—it’s real life, and it deserves respect—no “survival mode” needed.