Remedy Entertainment has announced FBC: Firebreak, a standalone cooperative PvE shooter set within the world of Control. Revealed during October’s Xbox Partner Preview, Firebreak takes players back to the Federal Bureau of Control in 2025 amidst the Hiss outbreak.
This three-player co-op experience puts players in the shoes of ordinary FBC personnel facing the supernatural horrors of the Hiss. Lacking Jesse Faden’s paranormal abilities, these individuals must rely on conventional weaponry, improvised armor, and teamwork to survive.
While Firebreak is connected to the Remedy Connected Universe and expands the lore of Control, prior knowledge of the game isn’t required to jump in. As described by Thomas Puha, Remedy’s communications director, Firebreak is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for players looking for a thrilling cooperative experience.
“It’s going to be easy to get into, a game that you can enjoy with your friends and tackle multiple hectic co-op missions showcasing that Remedy creativity,” Puha explained in an Xbox Wire post.
However, Control fans will find deeper connections and lore within Firebreak. Game director Mike Kayatta emphasizes the game’s significance within the Control narrative. He explained that while Firebreak‘s cooperative structure prevented its inclusion within Control itself, it offers a new perspective on the world, its characters, and the mysteries of the Oldest House.
“For the people who are keeping up with the single-player journey, we wanted to make sure that FBC: Firebreak was a legitimate and impactful part of that history and lore,” Kayatta stated. Players can expect to encounter familiar locations, meet new FBC personnel, and uncover more secrets within the Control universe.
The Xbox Partner Preview also showcased gameplay for Alan Wake 2‘s The Lake House expansion, further solidifying Remedy’s commitment to its interconnected universe. This expansion introduces a new playable character, enemies, and weaponry within an FBC research station.
Remedy’s ongoing development includes Heron and Condor, two previously announced Control universe projects. While Heron is described as a larger-scale game, potentially a direct sequel, Condor was initially a spinoff in the proof-of-concept phase. While Firebreak could have been Condor, the timing suggests additional unannounced projects are also in development.
