Southwest Montana is the organization leading the "Far Cry 5"-inspired Montana tourism initiative. About a year ago, it launched a Hope County website, which invites gamers to experience the stunning scenery that backdrops "Far Cry 5" in real life. Most of the recreational activities available in southwest Montana and on display the otherwise violent game are listed on this website, along with lodging information and a list of frequently asked questions.

“The game is unusual in the sense that it is a shoot-‘em-up game, but players can take a break from the action and fish or enjoy diverse recreation similar to what Montana really has to offer,” Bannon said.

According to Daniel Iverson, communications manager for the Montana Department of Commerce, the office was excited when Southwest Montana decided to take on this initiative. Iverson said he and the state department became aware of the Montana-based video game when Ubisoft came to shoot video for the game near Poplar, then came back again to shoot the short-action film in and around Anaconda.

“We thought it was interesting and kept an eye on it,” Iverson said. “Then we realized the 'Far Cry' games were pretty big in the video game world, and it was no small thing that Montana was front and center.”