When Remedy Entertainment, renowned for crafting compelling single-player narratives in third-person games, announced their venture into multiplayer with *FBC: Firebreak*, skepticism was understandable. Yet, after witnessing a hands-off demo of this three-player PvE first-person shooter set six years post-*Control*, it's clear that Remedy has once again pushed boundaries. *FBC: Firebreak* stands out in the crowded multiplayer shooter genre with its originality and eccentricity, steering clear of the typical military or sci-fi themes. Game director Mike Kayatta emphasized the game's design philosophy, stating, "We're not about daily check-ins. We're not interested in monthly grinds. We don't want to give anybody a second job." This approach promises a refreshing, commitment-free gaming experience.
In *FBC: Firebreak*, players can dive into 20-minute sessions or extend their playtime, with Perk unlocks and character combinations ensuring varied gameplay. Set within The Oldest House, players assume the roles of volunteer first responders—ordinary folks like secretaries and rangers—tasked with managing crises. The Federal Bureau of Control might not call you expendable, but the stakes are high.
FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots
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Upon logging in, players select a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (loadout), and set the Threat Level (difficulty) and Clearance Level, which dictates the number of zones to navigate. These zones, separated by containment doors, lead to different stages of the Job. In the demo, the Job "Paper Chase" unfolds in a seemingly mundane office section of the FBC building, where players must combat the spreading Hiss. The challenge lies in escaping with valuable currencies for upgrades, balancing exploration with survival.
*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself with its unique arsenal. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that can extinguish fires and douse sticky-note monsters to a zapper capable of summoning lightning storms, the weapons have a charmingly homemade feel. Even traditional firearms like machine guns and shotguns play a crucial role, especially against the formidable sticky-note monsters that players must eliminate to prevent an overrun.
The game's inventive mechanics extend beyond weaponry. Players can utilize office supplies to replenish ammo, construct makeshift turrets, use stereo speakers to repel the Hiss, and rinse stations to remove sticky notes. Unlockable Perks add depth, such as bullets returning to the clip upon missing or extinguishing oneself by jumping. These Perks can be enhanced and shared with teammates, fostering cooperative play.
*FBC: Firebreak* accommodates solo and duo play alongside its three-player mode. Remedy aims for broad accessibility with lower minimum PC specs, while also supporting advanced features like DLSS4, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. The game will be Steam Deck verified and available on Xbox and PC Game Pass, as well as PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium from day one. While post-launch content plans remain under wraps, paid cosmetics will be the only microtransactions.
FBC FirebreakRemedy Wishlist
While I haven't yet played *FBC: Firebreak*, the game's unique approach and design philosophy are promising. It's not just another multiplayer shooter; it's a refreshing return to games that don't demand constant time investment, echoing a time when gaming was more about fun than obligation.
