
Prepare yourself for a mind-bending journey into the heart of a paranormal agency shrouded in secrecy. Control, Remedy Entertainment’s masterpiece, thrusts you into the role of Jesse Faden, a young woman who finds herself embroiled in a supernatural conspiracy at the Federal Bureau of Control – an enigmatic organization tasked with containing and studying paranormal phenomena.
The game begins with Jesse witnessing the death of her brother Dylan, leading her to the Oldest House, a brutalist skyscraper that serves as the headquarters for the FBC. Inside this seemingly ordinary building lies a gateway to alternate realities and a source of immense power known as the Hiss, an otherworldly force that corrupts individuals and bends reality to its will.
Jesse soon discovers that she possesses extraordinary abilities granted by the Service Weapon – a shape-shifting firearm capable of transforming into various forms like a pistol, shotgun, or sniper rifle. This unique weapon allows her to confront the Hiss-infested agents within the Oldest House while navigating labyrinthine hallways and uncovering the mysteries behind the agency’s past.
Exploring The Oldest House: A Labyrinth of Shifting Spaces
Control embraces a unique level design philosophy that encourages exploration and rewards curiosity. The Oldest House is no ordinary building – its architecture shifts and morphs, reflecting the ever-changing influence of the Hiss. Rooms twist and turn unexpectedly, staircases lead to improbable destinations, and entire sections can vanish or reappear at will.
This unpredictable environment creates a sense of constant wonder and tension as you navigate its shifting corridors. You never know what awaits around the corner – a confrontation with corrupted agents, a hidden room containing crucial lore, or an unexpected shortcut that reveals a new pathway through the building.
Location | Description |
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Central Executive | The heart of the Oldest House, housing the Director’s Office and key departments. |
Panopticon | A surreal observation area with shifting floors and glass walkways. |
Astral Plane | A realm accessed through a portal, offering insights into the nature of the Hiss. |
The Power Within: Mastering Jesse Faden’s Supernatural Abilities
Jesse’s journey is not solely reliant on her Service Weapon. As she progresses, she unlocks various supernatural abilities called “Service Powers” that grant her control over objects, telekinesis, and even the manipulation of time and space.
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Launch: This power allows Jesse to hurl objects with immense force, acting as both a ranged attack and a tool for manipulating the environment.
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Telekinesis: Jesse can lift and move objects using her mind, clearing pathways, disarming enemies, or even throwing debris at hostile targets.
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Shield: A protective barrier that absorbs incoming damage, providing a crucial defensive measure against powerful attacks.
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Evade: Jesse can phase through obstacles and enemy projectiles, allowing her to dodge attacks and maneuver strategically in combat.
By strategically combining these powers with the versatility of the Service Weapon, players can develop unique playstyles tailored to their preferences.
Themes and Narrative: Exploring Reality and Identity
Control delves into profound themes related to identity, free will, and the nature of reality itself. The game explores Jesse’s journey of self-discovery as she grapples with the loss of her brother, the burden of leadership thrust upon her, and the unsettling truths she uncovers about the FBC’s past.
The narrative is presented through a mix of environmental storytelling, audio logs, and interactions with enigmatic characters like Emily Pope, the Head of Research, and Ahti, the janitor who harbors strange secrets.
The Hiss, as a manifestation of corrupted consciousness, serves as a metaphor for the destructive potential of unchecked power and the dangers of succumbing to external influences. Jesse’s struggle against the Hiss is not just a physical battle but also a philosophical one – a fight to preserve her own identity and autonomy in the face of overwhelming forces.
A Triumph of Visual Design and Atmosphere
Control stands out for its stunning visual fidelity and atmospheric world-building. The Oldest House is rendered with meticulous detail, showcasing a blend of brutalist architecture and otherworldly elements that create a unique and memorable aesthetic.
The game employs dynamic lighting and shadow effects to enhance the sense of immersion and tension. Encounters with corrupted agents are visually striking, punctuated by bursts of energy and surreal distortions as the Hiss manipulates reality around them.
Sound Design: An Immersive Soundscape
The sound design in Control plays a crucial role in creating a haunting and unforgettable atmosphere. The soundtrack blends ethereal melodies with discordant industrial sounds, reflecting the unsettling nature of the Oldest House and the constant threat posed by the Hiss.
Environmental sounds like distant whispers, echoing footsteps, and the crackle of otherworldly energy add to the game’s sense of unease and intrigue. Voice acting is exceptional, bringing the characters to life with depth and nuance.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Action and Atmosphere
Control is a genre-defining experience that seamlessly blends thrilling third-person shooter action with mind-bending narrative twists and captivating world-building. The game’s emphasis on exploration, its innovative level design, and Jesse Faden’s powerful abilities make for an unforgettable journey into the heart of a paranormal conspiracy.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for something truly unique, Control is a must-play title that will leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll.