The Resistance
The Resistance is the foundational progression system in Far Cry 5, meticulously tracking your efforts to liberate Hope County from the oppressive grip of the Project at Eden's Gate cult. Instead of a linear mission path, your journey is defined by accumulating Resistance Points (RP) within three distinct regions: Holland Valley (John Seed's territory), Henbane River (Faith Seed's territory), and the Whitetail Mountains (Jacob Seed's territory).
Each region operates as a self-contained progression track. As you earn RP in a specific region, you gradually fill a three-stage meter. Reaching the end of each stage triggers a mandatory story mission, culminating in a direct confrontation with the region's respective Heralds: John, Faith, and Jacob Seed. Successfully defeating all three Heralds and maxing out the Resistance meter in all three regions is the ultimate prerequisite to unlocking the final confrontation with Joseph Seed.
Earning Resistance Points (RP)
Resistance Points are the lifeblood of your rebellion. Nearly every action you take against the cult contributes to your regional RP meter. The more aggressive and disruptive your tactics, the faster you'll fill the meter and advance the story. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of how to efficiently earn RP:
- Completing Story Missions: These are the most significant source of RP. Each main story mission, often initiated by interacting with key NPCs like Dutch, Mary May Fairgrave, Pastor Jerome Jeffries, or Hurk Drubman Jr., awards a substantial amount of RP.
- Liberating Outposts: Capturing cult outposts is a highly effective way to earn RP and establish safe zones for the resistance. Each outpost liberation grants a significant RP bonus for its respective region. Aim for stealthy liberations (no alarms triggered) for additional rewards.
- Destroying Cult Property: Hope County is littered with symbols of Eden's Gate's control. Seek out and destroy the following:
- Shrines: Large, often elaborate structures dedicated to the cult's ideology.
- Propaganda Towers: Radio towers broadcasting cult messages.
- Roadblocks: Cult checkpoints blocking key routes.
- Bliss Containers: Large vats of the hallucinogenic drug, particularly prevalent in Faith's region.
- Cult Vehicles: Destroying any vehicle bearing the cult's insignia.
- Rescuing Civilians/Hostages: Throughout Hope County, you'll encounter civilians being harassed, captured, or held hostage by cultists. Intervening and saving them not only earns RP but also often recruits them as new resistance members or unlocks side missions.
- Completing Side Missions: While not always as impactful as story missions, many side quests offered by various NPCs contribute a moderate amount of RP to the region they are located in.
- Eliminating VIP Targets: Occasionally, you'll encounter named cultists or high-ranking officers. Taking them down provides a decent RP boost.
- Destroying Cult Supply Vehicles: These convoys often travel on main roads. Intercepting and destroying them yields RP and sometimes valuable loot.
Regional Progression and Heralds
The Resistance meter in each region is divided into three distinct stages. Filling a stage will trigger a specific story event, often leading to a forced encounter or a new mission objective. This culminates in a direct confrontation with the region's Herald:
| Region | Herald | RP Thresholds (Approximate) | Key Story Missions/Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holland Valley | John Seed | Stage 1: ~4,000 RP Stage 2: ~8,000 RP Stage 3: ~12,000 RP |
"The Confession," "The Atonement," "The Wrath" |
| Henbane River | Faith Seed | Stage 1: ~5,000 RP Stage 2: ~10,000 RP Stage 3: ~15,000 RP |
"The Bliss," "The Lesson," "Paradise Lost" |
| Whitetail Mountains | Jacob Seed | Stage 1: ~6,000 RP Stage 2: ~12,000 RP Stage 3: ~18,000 RP |
"The World is Weak," "Casualties of War," "The Doctor" |
Note: RP thresholds are approximate and can vary slightly based on the order of operations and specific mission choices. The final stage in each region always culminates in a boss fight against the respective Herald.
Strategic Approach to Resistance
While you have the freedom to tackle regions in any order, a balanced approach is often recommended. Focusing too heavily on one region early on can lead to being "snatched" by the Herald's forces repeatedly, which can be disruptive. A good strategy involves:
- Early Diversification: Spend some time in each region initially, completing a few story missions and liberating an outpost or two to get a feel for the unique challenges and enemy types.
- Prioritize Outposts: Liberating outposts not only grants significant RP but also unlocks fast travel points and reduces cult presence in the surrounding area, making subsequent missions easier.
- Utilize Guns for Hire: Each region has unique Guns for Hire (GFH) that become available as you progress. Recruit them early, as their abilities can significantly aid in earning RP and surviving encounters. For example, Nick Rye (Holland Valley) is excellent for destroying cult vehicles, while Jess Black (Whitetail Mountains) is superb for stealthy outpost liberations.
- Be Opportunistic: Always be on the lookout for cult activities – convoys, hostage situations, or propaganda vehicles. These are quick and easy sources of RP that can add up over time.
- Manage Your Weapons and Perks: As you progress, cultists become tougher. Ensure your weapon loadout is diverse (e.g., a good assault rifle, a shotgun for close quarters, and a sniper rifle for long-range engagements). Invest in perks that enhance combat effectiveness, survivability, and resource gathering.
By understanding and actively engaging with the Resistance Points mechanic, you will systematically dismantle Eden's Gate's control, empower the local populace, and ultimately pave the way for the final confrontation with Joseph Seed and the liberation of Hope County.