FBC: Firebreak

FBC: Firebreak is a cooperative first-person shooter set in the Control universe, developed by Remedy. Players assume the roles of Firebreakers, specialized operatives tasked with combating supernatural threats in the Oldest House. The gameplay loop is reminiscent of Left 4 Dead, involving running through maps, completing objectives, and fighting hordes of enemies while utilizing unique class kits with specific abilities. The game features five missions, each divided into three parts, with difficulty and corruption modifiers to tailor the experience.

Players praise the solid core gameplay, unique class roles, and Remedy's signature art style that captures the Remedyverse atmosphere. However, the game is criticized for a lack of content, repetitive missions, limited enemy and weapon variety, and insufficient onboarding or tutorials. The absence of in-game voice or text chat hampers cooperative play, and some bugs and UI issues detract from the experience. Many feel the game was released prematurely and would benefit from more polish, content, and communication features.

Highlights

Players especially appreciate the game's engaging cooperative mechanics and the synergy between the three distinct Crisis Kits, which add tactical depth. The Remedyverse art style and setting, including the Oldest House environment, receive strong praise for atmosphere and design.

The progression system, including perks and weapon upgrades, provides meaningful customization. The adjustable difficulty and corruption modifiers allow players to tailor challenge and session length, enhancing replayability. The core gameplay loop of objective-based combat against hordes is considered fun and satisfying once players understand the mechanics.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's lack of content and variety, with only five missions and limited enemy types leading to repetitive gameplay. Weapon variety is minimal, and guns often lack impactful feedback. The missions are short and sometimes feel like chores with repetitive tasks.

Player onboarding is poor, with no proper tutorial and unclear explanations of key mechanics such as elemental synergies. The absence of in-game voice or text chat severely limits team communication. Several bugs, UI issues (especially on ultrawide monitors), and matchmaking problems further hamper the experience. Many reviewers feel the game was released too early and would benefit from additional polish and content updates.