Just Cause 3 Isn't Free-to-Play, Studio Clarifies

The studio working on the long-anticipated open-world action title Just Cause 3 has assured fans that the game will not be free-to-play, nor feature microtransactions.

Christofer Sundberg, the co-founder of Sweden-based developer Avalanche Studios, assured fans after a leaked image appeared to show that vehicles could be purchased in-game with virtual currency.

"Those leaked screenshots were taken from an ancient version of Just Cause 3," Sundberg wrote on Avalanche's website.

"Like most games, this one went through an exploratory phase where we looked at different control schemes, different technologies, different business models. Those leaked screenshots show aspects of that process, and in no way reflect the game we are making today."

In a bid to draw a line under the matter, he added: "To be perfectly clear: Just Cause 3 will be available in 2015 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Windows PC. It will be distributed as a retail box and digital download. It is not a Free To Play game. It does not feature in-game micro transactions."

Just Cause 3 marks the return of the acclaimed series since its last release in 2010. Just Cause 2 was praised in GameSpot's review for its "crazy stunts, huge and gorgeous gameworld, and playful attitude".

Few details have been made public, though it is said that the game takes place in a fictional Mediterranean archipelago, which means it spans a localised group of islands. For more fluid traversal across these islands, the parachute and grapple mechanics have been improved.

Sundberg added that, beyond launch, the team is looking into releasing DLC packs and various items, "as part of our ambition to support Just Cause 3 and its players for many years to come."