A Fresh Chapter in Remedy’s Unified Universe

Over the last ten years, Remedy Entertainment has been like a maestro, orchestrating a shared universe through games like Control and Alan Wake. These titles, while unique in their own right, come together to tell a greater story. The upcoming co-op shooter, FBC Firebreak, is ready to enter this universe as the next big act, and although it shifts gears in terms of concept and gameplay, it’s still very much a child of Remedy’s vision.

I got an early peek at FBC Firebreak courtesy of Game Rant, and I have to say, just like Remedy’s other projects, it has a unique flair. This time around, Remedy is shaking up the FPS genre by giving players the power to customize each session to their heart’s content—quite a departure from their more narrative-focused games.

The story in FBC Firebreak, while straightforward compared to Remedy’s usual complex narratives, is engaging. Set six years after the events of Control, The Oldest House, which serves as the FBI’s epicenter, remains sealed and overrun with formidable foes known as The Hiss. A brave group of volunteers from within the Bureau steps up to banish these intruders by any means necessary.

The creation of FBC Firebreak rested on four main pillars. First, there’s a strong connection to the world of Control. Remedy wanted the game to feel like it belongs in its universe, with unique visuals and sounds. The second principle was simplicity, ensuring players could dive into multiplayer action without being bogged down by cumbersome bells and whistles common to the genre, such as daily check-ins and battle passes. Third, is the essence of camaraderie, where teamwork genuinely enhances progression. And lastly, is repeat enjoyment—ensuring the gameplay mechanics offer excitement in every session, tailored to the player’s preferences.

Remedy’s design choices emphasize player experiences over fixed storylines. The team aimed to cater to fans of both Control and Alan Wake, ensuring that even as the story progresses, Firebreak stands solid on its own. You can play solo or with a friend, but the game truly shines with three. While Remedy hasn’t spilled the beans about any possible crossovers with Alan Wake or Control, history suggests we might find some delightful Easter eggs hidden within.

In terms of gameplay, FBC Firebreak embraces flexibility. Players embark on missions they can tailor to their liking—choosing everything from the environment and objectives to their gear loadouts. The game offers a “crisis kit” system, letting players swap up to three different setups at any time, featuring various weapons, perks, and mods to suit any playstyle.

In one of the demo missions, Paper Chase, players had to destroy thousands of sticky notes, encountering absurd creations like sticky note monsters—a hallmark of Remedy’s quirky design. The action intensified rapidly, with weaponry like electrifying shotguns keeping engagements dynamic and fun.

FBC Firebreak is set for a summer 2025 release. Remedy shared that any post-launch content will be free, though cosmetic purchases will be available. From the start, players can enjoy it via PS Plus Extra/Premium and Xbox Game Pass. I can’t wait to see more details as the release approaches!