Remedy’s FBC Firebreak Is More Left 4 Dead Than Live-Service, And That’s The Beauty Of It

Remedy’s Diverse Projects

Remedy, the studio behind iconic single-player games like Max Payne, Alan Wake, and Control, is expanding its horizons. In addition to remakes of Max Payne and Control 2, Remedy is venturing into new territory with FBC Firebreak, a cooperative PvE shooter set in the world of Control. This new game aims to merge Remedy’s unique style with the accessible gameplay of a multiplayer shooter, all without feeling like a chore.

Unique Gameplay Experience

In FBC Firebreak, teams of three players embark on missions to cleanse different sections of The Oldest House while battling The Hiss using a variety of Remedy-esque weapons. The game features diverse enemy types and exciting combat scenarios, such as facing off against a boss made of sticky notes. Each player can choose from different Kits tailored to specific playstyles, offering a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience.

FBC Firebreak leans into some classic co-op mechanics, such as complementary player builds, but it leans into Remedy’s weirdness, too.

Player-Focused Approach

While FBC Firebreak can be played solo or in pairs, it truly shines when played as a three-person team. The game’s mission structure, escalating difficulty, and boss encounters provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for players. Game director Mike Kayetta emphasized the importance of player feedback in shaping the game’s design, ensuring that FBC Firebreak avoids the pitfalls of traditional live-service titles.

The game's story is set six years after the events of Control, and many have made The Oldest House their home. — The game’s story is set six years after the events of Control, and many have made The Oldest House their home.

Community-Oriented Updates

Post-launch support for FBC Firebreak will involve free mission updates and optional cosmetic purchases, catering to the dedicated player base while avoiding restrictive live-service practices. The game’s team is committed to fostering a welcoming community focused on enjoying the game at their own pace, rather than succumbing to pressure from traditional live-service models.

Refreshing Gameplay Experience

With a focus on engaging gameplay, diverse progression systems, and a commitment to player agency, FBC Firebreak represents a departure from conventional live-service titles. The game’s upcoming release on multiple platforms, including Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus, signals a new approach to game distribution that prioritizes player accessibility and enjoyment.