Control Resonant Review: New York Faces Paranormal Threats

Control Resonant, an action game developed by Finnish studio Remedy, has been released for PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC. This sequel to the 2019 title, Control, presents a narrative where players assume the role of Dylan Faden, Jesse Faden's brother. Dylan awakens after years of confinement within the Oldest House, a supernatural government bureau, only to discover that its paranormal contents have breached containment and are now manifesting in downtown Manhattan. The game's premise involves Dylan venturing out of the Oldest House to confront these escaped phenomena in a familiar urban setting.

Remedy, known for its distinctively unconventional game design, has crafted a title that, while accomplished, leans towards a more conventional approach compared to its predecessor. The game features strengths in its character progression systems and the visually impressive presentation of its paranormal world. However, the review suggests that Control Resonant does not evoke the same sense of unique exploration or expansive influence that characterized the original Control. Players will navigate New York City, wielding supernatural abilities against glowing orange adversaries, a scenario that the review notes can feel reminiscent of other open-world games.

The original Control immersed players in a series of surreal, Twilight Zone-esque episodes within the Oldest House, a location that blurred the lines between architectural impossibility and the subconscious. Players battled mundane objects imbued with supernatural properties, all within the confines of this mysterious bureau. Control Resonant revisits this core concept, with Dylan Faden now tasked with addressing the paranormal events that have spilled into the real world. The game's setting in downtown Manhattan contrasts with the more abstract and architecturally bewildering spaces of the Oldest House, a location previously explored in other games such as Marvel's Spider-Man and The Division.

The review highlights that while the core gameplay loop of using supernatural powers against paranormal threats remains, the impact is diminished. The game's visual presentation is described as lustrous, and the progression of Jesse Faden's abilities offers a satisfying element. However, the overarching experience is perceived as less recondite and expansive than the original. The developer, Remedy, has a history of creating games with unique atmospheres and narratives, and Control Resonant aims to continue this legacy, albeit with a more grounded approach to its urban setting. The game's success will likely depend on its ability to deliver a compelling narrative and engaging gameplay mechanics within its paranormal framework, even as it navigates familiar territory.