Avalanche Studios is quite busy these days. Other than co-developing RAGE 2 with id Software (with its Apex Engine powering the game), it’s also working on Just Cause 4. The explosive franchise had a few missteps in Just Cause 3, but Avalanche is intent on delivering a bunch of new features with the sequel.
To that end, it’s released several videos in the Just Cause 4 “Making Of” series to offer more information on changes and gameplay systems. The first five videos are currently available and cover topics like the Apex Engine, Forces of Nature, the grapple hook, changes to Rico’s character, and the world of Solis, a fictional South American environment that serves as the game’s setting.
One interesting detail is how the Apex Engine was necessary to enable the new tornadoes, sandstorms and torrential rain, which change up the game in unexpected ways. Vehicles are drawn into it and enemy AI will react accordingly. Rico will also need to find ways to deal with these Forces of Nature, which could include wing-suiting through a cavalcade of tornadoes.
Just Cause 4 is out on December 4th for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.