Renowned for crafting narrative-driven titles like Alan Wake and Control, Remedy Entertainment ventures into co-op gameplay with FBC: Firebreak. This three-player tactical shooter unfolds years after Control, thrusting players into missions to reclaim the Hiss-controlled Oldest House. While expanding the studio’s Connected Universe lore through environmental storytelling, the game prioritizes squad-based combat over plot progression, blending eccentric mechanics with signature Remedy weirdness.

Diverging from expectations, the title emphasizes chaotic battles using three specialized Crisis Kits: the brute-force Fix Kit, field-controlling Jump Kit, and elemental Splash Kit. Each offers unique tools, from shock-inducing gauntlets to pressurized water cannons, which synergize with environmental hazards. However, repetitive objectives and a grind-heavy upgrade system undermine the initial thrill, as unlocking essential gear demands hours of recycled encounters.

Set six years post-Control, the narrative follows emergency operatives battling Hiss infestations across procedurally altered sectors of the Oldest House. Environmental clues hint at broader universe implications, but storytelling takes a backseat to mission structure. Five core objectives—like neutralizing possessed documents in Biblio Hazard or stabilizing thermal regulators in Meltdown Protocol—feature randomized elements, though limited variations become apparent after multiple runs.

Gameplay innovation lies in status-effect interplay: electrifying drenched foes or igniting oil slicks creates devastating combos. Strategy deepens with Corruption modifiers in higher Clearance Levels, introducing possessed objects that warp combat dynamics. Yet these twists struggle to offset the shallow weapon arsenal, with conventional firearms feeling uninspired compared to gadget-driven Crisis abilities. Enemy diversity also falters, relying on Hiss variants rather than distinct archetypes.

The Northlight Engine delivers visually striking renditions of the Oldest House’s brutalist architecture, enriched by reactive lighting and particle effects. Performance remains stable across platforms, though competitive players may disable ray tracing for higher framerates. Absent native voice chat, the ping system suffices for basic coordination but limits strategic planning in chaotic scenarios.

While initial hours dazzle with creative problem-solving and environmental interactions, repetition sets in around the 20-hour mark. The progression system gates impactful upgrades like Altered Augments behind excessive grinds, escalating tedium. Promised content updates could address longevity concerns, but at launch, the experience peaks too early despite its inventive foundation.

FBC: Firebreak showcases Remedy’s flair for surreal setpieces but stumbles in sustaining engagement beyond its novel premise. Diehard franchise fans will appreciate lore connections and unpredictable mission scenarios, yet the formula needs refinement to compete with genre stalwarts. With post-launch support, it could evolve into a cult favorite—but currently feels like a promising prototype rather than a polished product.

PC version tested. Review code provided by the publisher.

7.3

WCCFTECH RATING

FBC: Firebreak