# **Remedy Entertainment Launches Its Debut Multiplayer Title: *FBC: Firebreak***

Renowned developer Remedy Entertainment, known for titles like *Control* and *Alan Wake 2*, has officially announced its inaugural multiplayer game, *FBC: Firebreak*. This revelation signifies a notable shift from the studio’s typical focus on solo narrative-driven experiences. *FBC: Firebreak* is an online cooperative first-person shooter (FPS) set in the *Control* universe, crafted to offer an engaging and user-friendly multiplayer adventure.

## **A Fresh Multiplayer Approach for Remedy**

At a virtual preview event alongside representatives from *CGMagazine*, Remedy’s communications director Thomas Puha, game director Mike Kayatta, and community manager Julius Fondem shared a comprehensive overview of *FBC: Firebreak*. The game is structured as a cooperative shooter for three players, but it can also be enjoyed solo or with two teammates. The setting is the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC), a covert organization fighting extradimensional menaces known as the Hiss.

Diverging from Remedy’s previous endeavors, which emphasized profound storytelling and immersive single-player experiences, *FBC: Firebreak* seeks to provide a more laid-back, action-oriented gameplay. Kayatta highlighted that the game is tailored for players looking to engage in short, fun sessions, fostering unforgettable experiences with friends.

> *“In essence, *FBC: Firebreak* targets those who want to jump in for an hour or two and forge memorable moments with friends online.”*

## **Game Mechanics and Environment**

Taking place six years post-*Control*, *FBC: Firebreak* continues the fight against the Hiss. The FBC has been under lockdown within the Oldest House, the continually shifting base of the agency, while striving to control the extradimensional invasion. Players assume the role of Firebreakers—FBC volunteers designated as first responders to supernatural emergencies.

The primary gameplay centers around “Jobs,” which are missions structured for three-player teams. Each Job unfolds in different segments of the Oldest House, presenting distinct objectives and challenges. Jobs are categorized into three zones, with each zone lasting around 20 minutes, resulting in an overall session time of roughly one hour.

Prior to embarking on a Job, players select a **Threat Level** (affecting difficulty and rewards) and a **Clearance Level** (determining the zones accessible for exploration). Elevated Clearance Levels enhance the likelihood of encountering **Corrupted Items**, a sophisticated gameplay aspect Remedy intends to detail further.

## **Loadout Customization**

To confront the Hiss threat, players can deploy **Crisis Kits**, which serve as tailored loadouts for various playstyles. The three main Kits introduced so far comprise:
– **Jump Kit** – Emphasizing mobility and agility.
– **Fix Kit** – Offering support and healing capabilities.
– **Splash Kit** – Crafted for explosive and area-of-effect strikes.

Players have the flexibility to switch Kits during missions, facilitating strategic adaptability. Furthermore, *FBC: Firebreak* includes **Perks**, which modify gameplay. Notable Perks encompass bullets returning to the player’s clip after a miss or a method to extinguish oneself by jumping up and down.

## **Monetization and Content Plans**

Remedy has assured that all playable content in *FBC: Firebreak* will be **free for all players**, with microtransactions confined to cosmetic enhancements. The team affirmed there will be no “pay-to-win” elements. Although they refrained from detailing future DLC or expansion plans, they indicated a willingness to provide additional content as long as the player base remains active.

> *“FBC: Firebreak’s commitment to fun ensures that all playable content will be free for everyone, with out-of-game purchases limited to cosmetic items.”*

## **Technical Features and Performance**

*FBC: Firebreak* operates on Remedy’s proprietary **Northlight Engine**, the same technology utilized in *Control* and *Alan Wake 2*. While Remedy is recognized for its graphically intensive titles, the developers have optimized *FBC: Firebreak* to function on lower-spec PCs and confirmed complete support for **Steam Deck**.

For users with high-performance hardware, the game offers support for:
– **DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation**
– **NVIDIA Reflex**
– **Comprehensive ray tracing**

## **Platforms and Launch Timeline**

*FBC: Firebreak* will be accessible on:
– **Xbox Series X|S** (including PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate)
– **PC** (via Steam and the Epic Games Store)
– **PlayStation 5** (available for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members)

In contrast to Remedy’s recent AAA projects, *FBC: Firebreak*