In the supernatural thriller Control, players navigate a shifting landscape in a secretive government agency overrun by otherworldly forces. This game merges eerie narrative elements with destructive telekinetic combat, offering a reality-warping experience that bends the mind as much as the environment.
Control is a third-person action-adventure game developed by Remedy Entertainment and published by 505 Games. Released in August 2019, the game offers a blend of supernatural elements, intricate storytelling, and gameplay mechanics that encourage exploration and combat prowess. Set in the Federal Bureau of Control's (FBC) mysterious building known as the Oldest House, players assume the role of Jesse Faden, who becomes the bureau's Director under unusual circumstances.
At its core, Control combines gunplay with supernatural abilities. Players can wield a shape-shifting weapon called the Service Weapon while also using a variety of psychic powers like telekinesis, levitation, and mind control. The game features a sandbox environment, allowing players to explore different parts of the Oldest House, each with its unique challenges, enemies, and puzzles.
The narrative of Control is deeply rooted in weird fiction and cosmic horror. Jesse arrives at the FBC in search of her missing brother, Dylan. As she delves deeper into the Oldest House, she uncovers a range of unsettling truths about the bureau, the building, and even her own past. The storytelling is nonlinear, often revealed through documents, audio logs, and environmental cues, allowing players to piece together the complex lore as they progress.
Control received widespread acclaim for its cutting-edge graphics, featuring real-time ray tracing and high-quality textures. It runs on the Northlight Engine, which enables impressive lighting and physics effects. The game is known for its challenging system requirements but offers stunning visual fidelity when run on capable hardware.
Upon release, Control was met with positive reviews, particularly for its compelling story, complex characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It has received multiple awards and nominations and has been praised as one of the standout titles of its generation.
Post-launch, Control received two major expansions: "The Foundation" and "AWE", each adding new story content, abilities, and areas to explore. These expansions further enrich the game's lore and provide additional challenges for players.
Control has gained a cult following and is often cited in discussions about narrative-driven games and technological advancements in video game graphics. Its distinct blend of storytelling and gameplay sets it apart as a unique experience in modern gaming.