# FBC: Firebreak – Remedy Entertainment’s Initial Venture into Multiplayer Gaming
In an exhilarating announcement during the Xbox Partner Preview, **Remedy Entertainment** introduced their very first multiplayer title, **FBC: Firebreak**. This signifies a noteworthy shift for the Finnish developer, which has traditionally focused on single-player, narrative-rich games like *Alan Wake* and *Control*. Taking place in the same realm as *Control*, *FBC: Firebreak* presents gamers with a cooperative PvE (Player vs. Environment) shooting experience, while preserving the distinct Remedy flair that fans have grown to love.
## An Independent Experience in the Control Universe
Although *FBC: Firebreak* is based in the *Control* universe, game director **Mike Kayatta** was eager to stress that this is **not an expansion or sequel** to *Control*. “We aim to avoid the impression that it’s merely an extension of *Control*,” Kayatta stated. Rather, *FBC: Firebreak* is a **self-contained, complete game** that can be enjoyed without any prior familiarity with the *Control* storyline. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts of the *Control* universe, there are profound ties to the realm of the **Federal Bureau of Control (FBC)**, the enigmatic organization central to the *Control* narrative.
The game is anchored in the **Oldest House**, the enigmatic and perpetually evolving headquarters of the FBC, where players assume the roles of **special forces agents** assigned to tackle supernatural menaces. This environment sets the stage for collaborative gameplay, merging the unsettling, reality-altering ambiance of *Control* with swift, action-driven missions.
## A Remedy Variation on the PvE Shooter Genre
At its essence, *FBC: Firebreak* serves as a **cooperative PvE shooter**, where players unite to combat supernatural foes. However, consistent with all Remedy productions, it introduces a distinctive element. **Thomas Puha**, Communications Director at Remedy, characterized the game as **“easy to pick up”**, meaning players can jump in and enjoy without the need for extensive preparation. Yet, in spite of this accessibility, the game provides sufficient depth to maintain player engagement over time.
Among the defining features of *FBC: Firebreak* is the addition of **“paranormal augmentations”**, which serve as potent abilities players can deploy in battles. These augmentations create an element of unpredictability and tactical depth to the gameplay. A standout moment from the initial gameplay trailer showcased an **exploding garden gnome** utilized as an “ultimate” ability, reflecting the quirky and creative design that Remedy is celebrated for. These augmentations promise to grant players a unique advantage in combat, ensuring that no two encounters are alike.
## A Novel Approach to Storytelling
Despite the emphasis on multiplayer, Remedy Entertainment remains committed to its foundation in narrative-focused experiences. While *FBC: Firebreak* does not present a linear narrative in the conventional sense, it still provides a fresh way of storytelling within the FBC universe. Kayatta highlighted that **multiplayer titles should encompass more than just the developer’s narrative**; they should also reflect the exceptional experiences players generate for themselves. “Multiplayer games should revolve around not only our narrative, but the myriad of stories that fans experience personally,” he noted.
This methodology indicates that while there will be a narrative structure within *FBC: Firebreak*, much of the storytelling will derive from players’ interactions with the environment and with one another. This represents a shift from Remedy’s typical approach, but it is an exhilarating evolution that could bring a new viewpoint to the *Control* universe.
## Remedy’s Challenge: Transitioning to Multiplayer
For a studio primarily recognized for its single-player offerings, the creation of *FBC: Firebreak* poses a considerable challenge. **“We’ve aspired to develop a PvE multiplayer game for quite some time,”** Puha disclosed. Remedy is striving to craft a game that is both **dynamic and approachable**, without the demands of daily log-ins or grind-heavy systems. Instead, the emphasis will be on providing regular updates and new content to maintain freshness and keep the community involved.
This strategy may attract players seeking a more relaxed multiplayer experience, devoid of the time investment typically necessitated by other titles in the genre. Remedy’s objective is to devise a game that players can relish at their own speed while simultaneously offering ample content and depth to satisfy long-term aficionados.
## Release and Availability
*FBC: Firebreak* is anticipated to launch in **2025** for **Xbox Series X|S**, **PlayStation 5**, and **PC**. In a decision that will surely excite Xbox enthusiasts, the game will be accessible on **Game Pass from day one**, granting subscribers immediate entry to Remedy’s innovative title.