Avalanche Studios designed the sun-soaked archipelago of Medici not only as an expansive playground for explosive chaos, but also as a treasure trove of pop-culture secrets. Players navigating through Just Cause 3 frequently discover hidden surprises that pay homage to famous movies, internet memes, and classic video games. Uncovering these hidden gems adds a rich layer of discovery to Rico Rodriguez’s relentless crusade against General Di Ravello.
Nods to Dark Souls and Pop Culture Icons
One of the most famous secrets in the game is a direct tribute to the Dark Souls series located on a secluded island shore. Players can discover a bonfire complete with a sword sticking out of the ashes, which can even be lit for a subtle lighting effect. Beyond gaming nods, exploring Medici reveals references to iconic films like Jurassic Park, where players can find an abandoned research outpost hidden in the jungle.
Viral Internet Memes Hidden in Plain Sight
The developers embraced internet culture by embedding several hilarious memes directly into the game's open world. For example, finding a specific set of colorful dog statues triggers glowing text effects reminiscent of the famous Doge meme. Reading daily gaming news often reminds players of how much open-world titles benefit from these playful, community-focused details.
Strange Physics and Superpowered Gadgets
Medici is also home to bizarre interactive secrets that alter how players experience the game's physics. By locating a hidden teleporter pit, Rico can instantaneously travel across distant points on the map, skipping long travel distances. Another famous secret is a functioning soap box car hidden atop a steep hill, allowing players to race down mountain roads without any engine power.
Unique Weapons and Unexpected Landmarks
Exploration rewards adventurous players with weird weapons, such as the famous Mile High Club homage and special prop gadgets like the DK Pistol. Equipping this unusual firearm inflates the heads of enemies and NPCs, creating a hilarious visual effect reminiscent of vintage cheat codes. Discovering these locations requires patience, as many are tucked away on unmarked islands or deep inside mountain ravines.
