FBC: Firebreakbrings the mind-bending world ofControlinto a multiplayer setting, introducing an intriguing change of pace for developer Remedy Entertainment. The three-player co-op title promises an even deeper dive intoControland its lore, makingFBC: Firebreakan exciting new way to explore the game’s otherworldly features.
In recent years, Remedy Entertainment has really expanded its capabilities, as bothControlandtheAlan Wakeserieshave slowly formed into an extended universe. Using a blend of horror and paranormal-focused mystery, Remedy Entertainment’s universe has boasted some wonderfully absurd concepts, andFBC: Firebreakseems to take it up yet another notch. Until now, Remedy Entertainment has put most of its energy into single-player narratives, and venturing into multiplayer territory isn’t an easy transition. However, ifFBC: Firebreakhappens to be a successful way to showcase more ofControl’s world, then other single-player franchises that are branching out into the multiplayer space will want to take note.
FBC: Firebreak Could Inspire Other Evolving Franchises
Single-Player Narratives Exploring Multiplayer Approaches
When it comes to franchises that have mostly focused on single-player gameplay, Sony comes to mind for many. FromGod of WartoUncharted, many of the company’s biggest franchises have been single-player stories. However, Sony has been aiming to change that.FBC: Firebreakmay not be a Sony exclusive, but it could still serve as the blueprint for the company’s live-service ambitions. Sony has struggled to get its co-op plans to take off. Afterthe failure ofConcordand the cancelation of several multiplayer projects, likeThe Last of Us Online, the company will need to go back to the drawing board.
As of now, one of Sony’s only live-service projects still currently in development isthe secretiveHorizonmultiplayer spin-off. With this project not likely to be released any time soon, Guerrilla Games and Sony could very well be preparing to watch how the launch ofFBC: Firebreakgoes. This is also a completely new landscape for Remedy Entertainment to explore, so if the studio is able to pull it off with its own IP, then that could give Guerrilla Games the fuel and inspiration it needs in order to properly frameHorizonin a multiplayer setting.
In addition toThe Last of Us Online, aTwisted Metalmultiplayer project has also been scrapped.
A Unique Look Into Control’s Supernatural Lore
Theannouncement ofFBC: Firebreakseems to showcase a well-balanced blend of what makes Remedy Entertainment games so compelling while also succeeding at its co-op mechanics. Of course, this is only in-game footage and has yet to be experienced by players, but the multiplayer gameplay is likely to work if the title stays true to the strange energy ofControl. Based on the footage from the reveal trailer,FBC: Firebreakalmost looks like a fun blend ofLethal CompanyandGhostbusters, which could prove to be a special combination.
FBC: Firebreakwill feature a first-person perspective, which is another departure from Remedy Entertainment’s usual third-person formula.
The Remedy Entertainment universe is bizarre and absurd, which is what makesControlandAlan Wakesuch fascinating and beloved series. WithFBC: Firebreak, it seems as though this multiplayer spin-off is fully embracing this absurdity by bringing some self-aware humor into the mix. Although the game has yet to reveal a specific release date,FBC: Firebreakis now added to the continuously growing list of major games scheduled for next year. It will be intriguing to see how Remedy Entertainment reworks one of its most popular series as a multiplayer experience. If it proves to be a hit, then other single-player franchises curious about multiplayer spin-offs will potentially have a solid source of inspiration.
