When Remedy Entertainment, renowned for their compelling single-player third-person narratives, announced a multiplayer spin-off for *Control*, skepticism was understandable. However, my doubts were quickly dispelled after a hands-off demo of *FBC: Firebreak*, a three-player PvE first-person shooter set six years post-*Control*. This game stands out in the crowded multiplayer shooter market with its originality and quirky charm, distancing itself from the typical military and sci-fi themes. Moreover, it doesn't demand the extensive time commitment many of its peers do. As Mike Kayatta, the game director, stated, "We're not about daily check-ins. We're not interested in monthly grinds. We don't want to give anybody a second job." A sentiment that resonates well with gamers looking for a more flexible gaming experience.
*FBC: Firebreak* offers a cooperative FPS experience that's refreshingly straightforward. Whether you play for a quick 20 minutes or indulge for hours, the game keeps things engaging with unlockable Perks and new character combinations. Set in the familiar yet chaotic environment of The Oldest House, players assume the roles of volunteer first responders—ordinary individuals like secretaries and rangers thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The Federal Bureau of Control may not label you expendable, but the reality is stark.
FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots
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Upon logging in, players select a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (loadout), set the Threat Level (difficulty), and the Clearance Level, which dictates the number of zones to navigate. These zones, separated by containment doors, lead to the next stages of the Job. In the demo, I saw the "Paper Chase" Job, set in an office section of the FBC building where players must combat the spreading Hiss. The game allows for quick escapes or extended exploration for currency, with the latter increasing the challenge of safely returning to HQ.
*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself further with its unique weaponry, featuring a homebrew aesthetic. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that can extinguish fires and subdue sticky-note monsters, to a zapper that can trigger lightning storms, and a wrench enhanced by a piggy bank toy that unleashes a coin storm, the weapons are both bizarre and functional. Traditional firearms like machine guns and shotguns are also available, particularly useful for dealing with the sticky-note monsters after they've been soaked or zapped.
The Job in question revolves around eliminating sticky notes before they overrun the building, culminating in a battle against a gigantic sticky-note monster reminiscent of the Sandman from *Spider-Man 3*. Beyond weaponry, the game integrates fun in-universe mechanics like ammo-refilling office shelves, makeshift turrets, stereo speakers to repel the Hiss, and rinse stations to remove sticky notes. Unlockable Perks add depth and variety, such as bullets returning to the clip on a miss, or the ability to extinguish oneself by jumping. Stacking Perks enhances their effects, and with three, players can share the benefits with teammates.
Flexibility is key in *FBC: Firebreak*; it supports solo play, duos, and trios. Remedy aims for a broad accessibility with lower minimum PC specs, yet the game will also leverage advanced technologies like DLSS4 with multi-frame generation, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. It's set to be Steam Deck verified and will launch day one on Xbox and PC Game Pass, as well as PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium. Post-launch content is planned, with paid cosmetics being the only microtransactions.
FBC FirebreakRemedy Wishlist
While I haven't yet played *FBC: Firebreak*, the game's unique approach and design are promising. It's not just another multiplayer shooter; it's a refreshing take that harks back to a time when games didn't demand constant engagement. This could be a welcome addition to the genre, offering fun and flexibility without the grind.
