A New Direction for Remedy Entertainment

Known for their gripping single-player experiences like Alan Wake and Control, Finnish game developer Remedy is taking a daring leap into the multiplayer realm with FBC: Firebreak. This three-player co-op shooter dives into the eerie universe of Control but introduces a fresh narrative style, forgoing the studio’s signature cinematic storytelling for a gameplay experience rich in cooperative chaos.

The Setting: A Post-Control World

Set years after the events of Control, Firebreak unfolds in the ominous Oldest House, home to the Federal Bureau of Control. After sealing off this supernatural skyscraper to halt the insidious Hiss, a group of brave responders ventures within to restore order. Players will embody members of an emergency unit, tackling urgent missions from repairing vital machinery to combating the relentless Hiss amidst a backdrop of post-it note chaos.

A Gameplay Experience Like No Other

During a hands-on session at Remedy’s offices, I discovered that Firebreak offers a gameplay experience markedly different from its predecessors. This first-person shooter focuses heavily on teamwork, with players collaborating to achieve mission goals—whether that’s fixing the building's ventilation or clearing sticky notes that seem to multiply like an annoying infestation.

Strategic Cooperation is Key

The essence of Firebreak lies in its cooperative mechanics. With dynamic objectives and a challenging landscape, players must communicate and strategize over voice chat to survive the onslaught of the Hiss. Balancing repairs and combat, each teammate selects a unique 'crisis kit' equipped with special abilities and tools essential for overcoming obstacles and enemies.

Exploring a Surreal World Without Cutscenes

What sets Firebreak apart is its unique storytelling approach, relying on player immersion rather than traditional cutscenes or narrative logs. Players unravel the mysteries of the Oldest House through environmental interactions and character dialogues, fostering an atmosphere that feels both alien and familiar. As one character picturesque described, interpreting this world is akin to sharing stories from the field—a tapestry woven from fragmented encounters and observations.

Bridging Old and New Audiences

Game director Mike Kayatta emphasizes the importance of accessibility: Firebreak is designed with both longtime Control fans and newcomers in mind. The team aimed to create a narrative experience rewarding enough to satisfy avid players, while remaining straightforward for those unacquainted with the intricate lore of Control.

A Bold Expansion for Remedy

With the launch of FBC: Firebreak on June 17th, Remedy not only ventures into multiplayer territory but also steps into self-publishing, asserting greater control over their IPs. This ambitious project challenges the studio to redefine what it means to share immersive gaming experiences with friends, while remaining true to their legacy of compelling storytelling. Get ready for an adventure that promises chaos, cooperation, and a touch of the bizarre!

Mark Your Calendars!

FBC: Firebreak will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox, alongside a closed technical test starting May 15th. Don't miss the chance to dive into this thrilling new chapter from Remedy!