In a bold departure from its established narrative-driven titles, Remedy Entertainment is set to unveil FBC: Firebreak, a multiplayer experience that invites players into a surreal and chaotic world. Scheduled for release in Summer 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PlayStation 5, this game promises to blend the studio’s signature storytelling with cooperative gameplay.
Remedy, renowned for its cinematic single-player experiences such as Max Payne, Quantum Break, and Alan Wake, is venturing into the realm of 3-player PvE (player versus environment) co-op action. This shift aims to resonate with fans of cooperative titles like Deep Rock Galactic and Left 4 Dead, offering a fresh take on multiplayer dynamics.
A premium multiplayer PvE experience akin to Left 4 Dead
During a recent presentation, I was granted an exclusive look at FBC: Firebreak, immersing myself in the unsettling atmosphere of the Federal Bureau of Control. Players will find themselves trapped within this enigmatic agency, where reality is in flux and resources are scarce. While ammunition and food may be limited, the potential for weaponizing everyday office supplies is abundant.
For those familiar with Control, the setting will feel familiar. The Federal Bureau of Control is a clandestine government organization dedicated to managing “anomalies” that threaten the fabric of reality. These anomalies can manifest as objects, locations, or even people, creating a rich backdrop for the game’s narrative.
In Firebreak, players confront the aftermath of an otherworldly signal known as “The Hiss,” which has overtaken the FBC headquarters, a peculiar building known as the Oldest House. The remaining staff, now transformed into chaotic entities, have locked themselves inside, leaving players to navigate a constantly shifting environment armed with makeshift weapons.
(Image credit: Remedy Entertainment)
Players will step into the shoes of “Firebreakers,” FBC employees who have taken it upon themselves to combat the chaos. Lacking formal military training and equipment, they must navigate the warped office cubicles and maintenance tunnels of the Oldest House, undertaking various “jobs” to gather resources and rewards. Remedy has opted to sidestep conventional multiplayer pitfalls such as FOMO and battle passes, instead offering optional cosmetic rewards and free post-launch content updates.
One particularly whimsical mission, titled Paper Chase, involves battling against animated sticky notes that have formed into deadly clouds. This absurdity adds a layer of charm to the gameplay, showcasing Remedy’s knack for blending humor with horror.
FBC: Firebreak distinguishes itself by focusing on emergent gameplay rather than relying on formulaic engagement strategies. Players can choose from various “Crisis Kits,” each designed to enhance their role in tackling jobs. These kits can be swapped mid-mission, allowing for dynamic team strategies. The showcased kits include the Splash Kit, which utilizes water-based mechanics, the Fix Kit for repairs and turrets, and the Jump Kit for rapid repositioning and explosive distractions.
Firebreak is limited only by Remedy’s imagination — that’s a very generous limit
The prospect of Firebreak is intriguing, particularly given Remedy’s reputation for crafting immersive narratives. As someone who has grown weary of conventional multiplayer experiences, I find myself drawn to this innovative approach. The Control universe, rich with anomalies and alternate realities, provides a fertile ground for creativity, ensuring that players will encounter unexpected challenges and memorable moments.
While I have yet to experience the game firsthand, the visuals and concept suggest a vibrant, chaotic environment that could foster lasting memories for players and streamable content for content creators. With the promise of accessibility through PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass on launch day, FBC: Firebreak is poised to attract a diverse audience, making it a title worth keeping an eye on as it approaches its summer release.
