FBC: Firebreak marks a notable shift for Remedy Entertainment, famed for its single-player narratives, as it takes a leap into the multiplayer realm. This first-person cooperative shooter is set in the Remedy Verse, occurring shortly after the events of Control, where chaos reigns in The Oldest House thanks to the Hiss. A team named Firebreak, composed of FBC agents, is tasked with conducting maintenance to prevent total collapse.
Despite the intriguing backdrop, the game quickly thrusts players into action with little context. The absence of cutscenes in a multiplayer-focused title is understandable, yet a nod to the cherished lore that made this universe appealing would have enhanced the experience.
Visually, FBC has an advantage due to its connection with previous titles, featuring a compelling blend of ordinary office settings, brutalist architecture, and the quirky presence of sticky notes. Title cards in white font reminiscent of previous games further enrich this aesthetic.
Players engage in various routine tasks within The Oldest House, such as repairing ventilation systems and managing radiated spheres or sticky note infestations. To accomplish these objectives, three class kits are available: the Fix Kit, an engineering class that repairs with a hefty wrench; the Jump Kit, which provides electrical capabilities and mobility; and the Splash Kit, a water cannon for fire-extinguishing and team support.
While cross-functionality is possible—such as a Fix Kit user putting out fires—the game requires players to execute intricate commands, mirroring stratagem calls in Helldivers 2. These processes can lead to vulnerabilities, especially as hordes of Hiss attack, making specialization within teams essential.
Unfortunately, the core gameplay feels somewhat monotonous, particularly in the early levels where missions lack excitement, especially for solo players. Technically, the game performs well on both the PS5 and PS5 Pro, generally maintaining a stable 60 frames per second, with satisfying haptic feedback, reminiscent of Remedy’s strengths in third-person game design.
Each of the game’s five missions features three clearance levels, introducing new rooms and challenging boss fights, along with varying difficulty tiers and corruption modifiers that can complicate tasks. Players earn XP and Lost Aspects to unlock new weapons, gear, and perks, and more challenging runs yield unique currencies for further upgrades, encouraging player progression.
As players become accustomed to the mechanics, teamwork and awareness of health, ammunition, and status effects become increasingly crucial. The signature Remedy quirkiness emerges in the form of ultimate weapons like the lava-spewing teapot gun and strange level mechanics involving colorful gunk or sticky-note foes.
While the frantic gameplay offers glimpses of excitement, these moments can feel sparse, with the overall experience lacking a compelling draw. The developers have expressed a desire to avoid the live-service model that demands prolonged commitment, though they plan to release post-launch content. This approach contrasts with titles like FromSoftware’s Elden Ring Nightreign, which thrived from the outset.
Sadly, while Firebreak improves as players delve deeper into the content, it ultimately lacks the ingredient to inspire consistent engagement. Successful extractions often feel like anti-climaxes rather than thrilling victories, leaving players wanting a more compelling hook to maintain their interest.