What Control 2s Genre Switch-Up Could Mean for its Gameplay

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Key Takeaways

  • Control
    is mainly a third-person shooter with RPG-lite elements and Metroidvania-style level design.
  • Control 2
    is transitioning to the “action RPG” genre, hinting at more player freedom and diverse gameplay.
  • The sequel could expand on previous items like upgrades and weapons, and possibly feature a new plot structure.

As someone who has spent countless hours navigating the surreal world of The Oldest House and battling the paranormal forces that dwell within, I can’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation at the announcement of Control 2 transitioning into an “action RPG”. Having delved deep into Remedy Entertainment’s immersive universe, I’ve grown accustomed to Jesse Faden’s unique blend of third-person shooter action and supernatural powers.

In 2019, Control by Remedy Entertainment signified a fresh chapter in the developer’s history in various aspects. Following the mixed response to Quantum Break and the complications with Microsoft over intellectual property rights, Remedy pushed forward with Control. This game presented players with a setting and narrative reminiscent of SCP, showcasing many distinctive elements that are characteristic of Remedy. Moreover, it was the first game to merge Remedy’s other properties within a larger interconnected universe named the Remedy Connected Universe. The Alan Wake franchise was linked to Control through its final DLC, and both were set to progress under this unified vision moving forward.

Last year when Remedy unveiled Alan Wake 2, they showcased their shift from the original’s action-adventure style to a survival horror vibe. Now, it appears that the developer is following a similar path, as they recently disclosed that Control 2 will be an “action RPG.” Although this might seem ambiguous at first glance, it nevertheless offers some intriguing hints about how Remedy plans to evolve Control 2, and what it could imply for its gameplay mechanics.

Solution is likewise developing a multiplayer game titled “Firebreak: Control,” scheduled to launch next year. This title will be accessible on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus on the very first day of its release.

How Control 2’s Switch to An ‘Action RPG’ Could Impact Its Gameplay

Control Is Mostly a Third-Person Action-Adventure

Fundamentally, “Control” is primarily a third-person action shooter game. The main weapon players use is the adaptable Service Weapon, which can be switched among common roles such as pistol, shotgun, and sniper rifle. The protagonist, Jesse Faden, also employs various supernatural abilities, including telekinesis and levitation, to enhance combat and create a thrilling power fantasy experience. As the story unfolds, players gradually uncover additional powers, these abilities being distributed in a relatively straightforward sequence.

The layout design in Control bears a strong resemblance to a Metroidvania-style game. While the Oldest House might not be the largest map, it is filled with detail. There are numerous hidden challenges and discoveries, many of which demand careful observation of the surroundings and frequent exploration back to previously visited areas.

It should be noted that Control does contain some RPG-adajacent elements. Jesse has a set of skill trees through which fans can upgrade the Service Weapon and her powers, choosing to focus on the ones they prefer. Players can also equip personal mods that impart some extra bonuses like damage buffs and improved recharge rates. But these were pretty limited in the grand scheme of things, and not as in-depth as the genre normally goes. If Control 2 embraces RPG aspects more heavily, as Remedy states, it is likely to go much further with these and potentially other areas too.

How Control 2’s Gameplay Might Morph Into a More Rounded RPG Experience

The original game, Control, was quite interactive, but by openly referencing the Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre, Remedy might be hinting at a desire to offer players significantly more choices when engaging with the mechanics and narrative of Control 2. This potential sequel could incorporate elements characteristic of RPGs that were either absent or underdeveloped in the initial game. Possible aspects include:

  • An extensive pool of upgradable/craftable gear and cosmetics
  • Meaningful player-based choices that affect the characters and plot
  • Multiple protagonists or storylines
  • Different and more diverse powers
  • A semi-open world or many locations instead of a single condensed area

It’s fascinating to ponder over what Remedy might mean by describing the sequel as an action RPG, and how it could affect or broaden the foundation of the original game. For now, we can only guess, but it seems that the future for Control 2 is promising, and hopefully, Remedy will share more insights soon about the practical implications of this shift.

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2024-11-22 17:05