Square Enix Is Giving Away An Island For Just Cause 3, But You Might Want To Read The Fine Print

Absurd giveaways and contests aren’t uncommon in the video game world, and Square Enix is hoping to add its name to the honor roll. The publisher is giving away an island via an in-game Just Cause 3 contest, but don’t get excited yet.

The island is valued at up to $50,000. There’s no guarantee that it will be in a tropical location (Square Enix gets to choose the location). The island may not even be habitable or reachable unless you have access to a boat.

You’re also responsible for all taxes and fees, including attorney and closing costs. These aren’t uncommon, but know that Square Enix isn’t going to just deliver you a deed to an island just to the left of Antigua and wish you well. 

In fact, you might not actually get an island. According to the rules, “[Square Enix]reserves the right to change and/or substitute any components of the Grand Prize at any time, in its sole discretion.”

That might not be the worst scenario, though. You're better off taking the $50,000 cash prize alternative.

If you’re still interested, you can enter by purchasing the Just Cause 3 Day One Edition. During the first 90 days of the game’s live period, players will be able to rack up Chaos points by wreaking havoc in-game. At the end of the contest period, the person at the top of the leaderboard wins the island. 

Good luck?

[Source: Square Enix]

Our Take
When I first saw this, I was reminded of Majesco’s botched $1 million in-game contest for Advent Rising. The publisher eventually needed to pull the plug because of technical problems.

While Square Enix does need to make sure that there aren’t exploits or cheats enabled by the game that players can use to get to the top of the leaderboard, it’s the terms and conditions that are real stars here. I’m very much looking forward to Just Cause 3 and loved what I played at Gamescom. I just don’t think I’d be that interested in the island (even if I were eligible). Take the cash.