When Remedy, renowned for crafting compelling single-player narratives in third-person games, announced a multiplayer venture with *Control*, skepticism was understandable. However, *FBC: Firebreak*, a three-player PvE first-person multiplayer shooter set six years post-*Control*, quickly dispelled any doubts. In a hands-off demo, it became evident that *Firebreak* offers a refreshingly original experience in a crowded genre. It stands out with its delightfully weird setting amidst a sea of conventional military and sci-fi shooters. Best of all, it avoids the pitfalls of demanding daily check-ins or monthly grinds. As game director Mike Kayatta succinctly put it, "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 worth echoing.
In *FBC: Firebreak*, players can dive into a 20-minute session or spend a few hours, thanks to Perk unlocks and new character combinations that keep gameplay fresh. But what's the mission? You're volunteer first responders in The Oldest House, armed with bizarre weaponry. Your characters are everyday folks—secretaries, rangers—answering the call to duty. Though the Federal Bureau of Control might not say it, you're considered expendable.
FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots
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Upon logging in, players select a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (loadout), and set the Threat Level (difficulty) and Clearance Level, which dictates the number of zones to navigate. Zones are segmented by containment doors, leading to different stages of the Job. The Job showcased, "Paper Chase," unfolds in an ordinary office section of the FBC building, where you and your team must fend off the spreading Hiss.
The game encourages both quick escapes and thorough exploration for currency to upgrade and buy new gear. The longer you explore, the tougher the return to HQ becomes.
*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself with uniquely crafted weaponry. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that douses fires and sticky-note monsters to a zapper that can unleash lightning storms, the weapons have a homemade charm. Even traditional firearms like machine guns and shotguns find unique uses, particularly against the sticky-note monsters, which players must eliminate to complete the Job.
The game isn't just about odd weapons; it includes inventive in-universe mechanics. Ammo refills from office supply shelves, makeshift turrets built from boxes, stereo speakers to repel the Hiss, and rinse stations to remove sticky notes from your face. Unlockable Perks add variety, such as bullets returning to your clip on a miss, or extinguishing yourself by jumping. Collecting multiple Perks enhances their effect and can be shared with teammates.
You don't need a trio to play; solo and duo options are available. Remedy aims for lower PC specs but also supports advanced features like DLSS4, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. *FBC: Firebreak* will be Steam Deck verified and launch on Xbox and PC Game Pass, PlayStation Plus Extra, and Premium on day one. While a post-launch content plan remains under wraps, paid cosmetics will be the extent of microtransactions.
FBC FirebreakRemedy Wishlist
Although I haven't played *FBC: Firebreak* yet, it certainly looks promising. It's not just another multiplayer shooter; it's a refreshing return to the era when games didn't demand endless time commitments.
