We live in an age dominated by multiplayer and open-world games. Even as an avid gamer, it can get exhausting playing through these time-consuming experiences. This is why I’m thankful for Control. Remedy’s latest harkens back to a time when AAA cinematic titles reigned supreme. It focuses on story, character progression, and expertly-designed levels. Though a throwback to games of old, Control feels refreshing. As far as I’m concerned, it is one of the best titles of 2019.
In Control, players take on the role of Jesse Faden, who is out to uncover the machinations of the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC). This secret government organization’s primary goal is to safeguard Earth from extra-dimensional threats. But like all secret fictional organizations, the FBC is up to no good. The game starts with the FBC’s primary headquarters — the Old House — overrun by beings called the Hiss. Jesse must not only complete her personal mission but stop the Hiss incursion. Along the way, she’ll discover things about the FBC and herself.
The Old House is full of divergent paths to explore; some of which are inaccessible. Only after obtaining new abilities can players gain access to these locations. Going back to old areas is a perfect way to earn Jesse experience and skill points to make her stronger. As Remedy has previously stated, Control is very much a three-dimensional Metroidvania-inspired game. Half the fun comes from going back to previous locations and using new abilities to reach inaccessible areas. As you’d expect, going off the beaten path yields greater rewards.
The Hiss come in a variety of forms. The majority are FBC soldiers under Hiss control. They attack with conventional weapons like assault rifles and grenade launchers. Other Hiss types include strange monsters that crawl on the ground or float through the air. There are also some large bosses to contend with. In order to survive the Hiss, players must constantly stay on the move by running or using Jesse’s dash ability. It’s possible to seek shelter behind cover, but that never lasts long as enemies love to flank. Combat presents a good challenge and surviving against impossible odds is always rewarding.
Using the Service Weapon in tandem with Jesse’s abilities makes one feel like a true badass. Hurling objects into groups of enemies before finishing them with headshots never gets old. Sending grenades back at enemies seconds before they explode is a (literal) blast. The Service Weapon has different modes. You can use it as a handgun, sniper rifle, SMG, rocket launcher, or shotgun. It’s good to change the weapon’s form to suit the combat scenario at hand. For example, you’ll want to use Shatter to deal with mobs and Pierce to destroy enemy shields. It’s always good to experiment to see which combinations work best. Mastering the Service Weapon and abilities takes time. Once it all becomes second nature, you’ll fully appreciate the brilliance of combat.
You can upgrade your Service Weapon and abilities with different mods. You find these inside of Containment units or from defeated foes. Weapon Mods can give the Service Weapon additional firepower, reduced recoil, and faster reloading. Ability mods and Ability points give Jesse increased health, prolonged use of powers, and more. Stronger mod variants become available as the game progresses. Breaking down mods gives you points to further upgrade each weapon type. Mods and skills allow players a great degree of customization.
On top of combat and exploration, players will have to contend with a number of puzzles. Some are straightforward while others are true head-scratchers. Unlike most modern games, Control gives you next to no help in figuring out puzzle solutions. While it is frustrating to get stuck on a puzzle, I ultimately have to give Remedy credit for not holding users’ hands. Every puzzle has a solution if you’re patient enough to figure it out.
Control is a graphical powerhouse. This comes as little surprise considering how great previous Remedy games looked. Like Quantum Break, Control combines in-game graphics and real-world cinematics. Unlike Quantum Break, transitions feel natural and blend well together. Every character and each environment come to life in stunning detail. The showstopper is the Old House and its brutalist architecture. The sharp angles and exposed concrete design enhance the otherworldly atmosphere. This is especially true when the environment shifts and morphs before your eyes. The prominent use of reds for Hiss-controlled areas also helps magnify the surrealness of the environments.
During your adventures, you’ll encounter survivors who task you with a variety of side missions. The side missions provide additional content for players and help round out the world of Control. You’re free to take on side missions whenever you wish; even after finishing the story. The only caveat comes from Hiss Incursions. You’ll only have a limited amount of time to finish these before they disappear. Thankfully, they pop up quite frequently should you chose to skip one. While there are plenty of side missions available, there isn’t an overwhelming amount.
Control contains all of Remedy’s hallmarks: brilliant graphics, enigmatic plotlines, and supernatural combat. It eschews any multiplayer or open-world aspects in favor of a tight, single-player experience. It is the strongest title released by Remedy and lays the groundwork for future Control entries. If you’ve yet to play a Remedy game or if you want a title that takes you into a unique world, Control is worth your time.
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