A Fresh Chapter in Remedy’s Connected Universe

For the last ten years, Remedy Entertainment has skillfully crafted a shared universe through games like Control and Alan Wake. These titles are ingeniously interconnected to narrate a grander tale. The upcoming game, FBC Firebreak, continues this saga, despite boasting a completely different concept and gameplay style. It’s a lively co-op shooter and, at its essence, very much a part of Remedy’s communicated universe.

During a private showcase, Game Rant had the chance to observe FBC Firebreak firsthand. True to Remedy’s reputation, this game breaks new ground by redefining expectations for the FPS genre. It pushes players to customize their gaming experience every session, notably diverging from Remedy’s traditional narrative-focused style.

FBC Firebreak is a Co-Op Shooter With a Simple Premise

Despite Remedy’s penchant for complex storytelling, the premise of FBC: Firebreak is refreshingly straightforward. Taking place six years after the events of 2019’s Control, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s headquarters, The Oldest House, remains sealed and rife with ominous entities called The Hiss. This time, a volunteer group of first responders composed of the Bureau’s own staff steps in to quell the threat.

FBC: Firebreak’s Core Design Philosophy Explained

When creating FBC: Firebreak, Remedy based its design on four central pillars.

1. Only in Control: Although it stands alone, Firebreak is unmistakably a part of Remedy’s shared universe. Developers ensured that the game’s elements—its visuals and audio—are closely tied to the Control universe.

2. Pick Up and Play: Targeted first as a co-op shooter, the game emphasizes instant engagement. Remedy stripped away common genre stumbling blocks like daily check-ins and battle passes to ensure seamless play from the start.

3. Better Together: The game is crafted so that shared experiences bolster team progress. Everything players do incrementally advances the group’s collective experience.

4. Fun on Repeat: Fun is a fundamental principle, with highly engaging mechanics designed to offer impactful moments every minute. Tailored sessions mean every playthrough is uniquely customizable.

The intention was to allow players to have a hand in shaping their stories, generating exclusive experiences based on initial session settings. Remedy also wanted Control and Alan Wake fans to enjoy the continuation of the universe without branching into unfamiliar genres, so Firebreak had to stand strong independently.

FBC Firebreak supports single or duet play but truly shines with three players. While Remedy is tight-lipped about potential crossover elements with Alan Wake or Control, given its history, surprises are likely.

FBC Firebreak Offers a Variety of Ways to Play

In FBC: Firebreak, players choose jobs (missions) to embark on, including adjusting the environment, objectives, and equipment. They can set the threat level, determining combat intensity and zones, directly affecting the rewards.

Gear, known as crisis kits, allows for three customizable setups per player, enabling various playstyles with an assortment of weaponry, perks, and mods. Crisis kits can even be altered mid-session, adding further depth and flexibility.

FBC: Firebreak Gameplay Breakdown

During a sneak peek of FBC: Firebreak, Game Rant was introduced to a mission aptly named Paper Chase. Players were tasked with obliterating thousands of yellow sticky notes spread throughout the Bureau, showcasing Remedy’s signature zany, imaginative style. The mission presented chaotic action and frenzied attempts to manage waves of spawning Hiss and sticky note creatures.

The gameplay revealed compelling weaponry, with a standout shotgun electrifying the Hiss upon impact. The gunplay appeared brisk and tactile. Environments retained the vertical complexity familiar from Control, with the same vast ceilings and expansive corridors. Completing mission objectives required a hectic rush to the elevator, emphasizing efficiency and the urgency to tackle the relentless Hiss.

FBC: Firebreak is Expected to Arrive in Summer 2025

Remedy touched on Firebreak’s post-launch details, promising all subsequent content would be free, besides optional cosmetic purchases. Expected to launch in summer 2025, the game will be accessible on platforms like PS Plus Extra/Premium and Xbox Game Pass from day one, with more information anticipated soon.