FBC: Firebreak Risks Repeating Alan Wake 2’s Digital-Only Mistake

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Although the upcoming game Firebreak (FBC) is set to extend Remedy Entertainment’s gaming universe as a first-person shooter spin-off of Control, it seems to follow a similar debatable choice as Remedy’s recent title, Alan Wake 2. Notably, FBC: Firebreak marks Remedy’s foray into multiplayer games, and its initial release and forthcoming launch offers an exciting change in direction, serving as a continuation of the original Control storyline. However, while a sequel to Control has been announced and hinted at through Alan Wake 2’s Lake House DLC, FBC: Firebreak appears to be a more action-oriented, lighter game within Remedy’s interconnected universe of games.

However, it appears that Firebreak is drawing inspiration not only from Control’s potential sequel but also from Alan Wake 2, as suggested by elements such as its digital-only release format, social media buzz, and pricing strategies, which seem to indicate that the game will not be available in physical formats.

FBC: Firebreak launches on June 17th on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S! The standard edition will be available for $39.99 / €39.99 / £32.99 and the Deluxe Edition for $49.99 / €49.99 / £39.99. Wishlist now! www.playfirebreak.com #FBCFirebreak [image or embed] — Remedy Entertainment (@remedygames.com) April 24, 2025 at 8:01 PM

While it might be advantageous for an online PvE co-op shooter like “FBC: Firebreak” to pursue a digital-only strategy, this approach has been observed in many of Remedy’s recent titles, such as “Alan Wake 2“. Interestingly, unlike “Alan Wake 2“, which initially did not offer physical copies but later released them due to initial criticism, “FBC: Firebreak” could choose to debut without a physical version as a trial for Remedy’s future game releases.

After Alan Wake 2, FBC: Firebreak’s Digital-Only Release is Risky

Instead of sticking with its tradition of creating immersive, story-driven single-player games like Alan Wake, Control, and Quantum Break, Remedy Entertainment is venturing into new territory with FBC: Firebreak. This innovative game allows the studio to experiment with fresh storylines and gameplay concepts that they might not have explored otherwise. By building upon the narratives and designs of Control, the upcoming multiplayer game can concentrate on maintaining an engaging and satisfying gameplay experience for players. Furthermore, post-launch updates could draw from a rich source of established lore, while FBC: Firebreak may potentially contribute to the development of Control 2, given that a sequel has been confirmed.

Although Firebreak (FBC) might achieve success, potential issues could arise if it doesn’t receive a physical release. This is particularly relevant considering that Alan Wake 2 experienced backlash when initially released as a digital-only game. While Alan Wake 2’s digital exclusivity likely faced stronger resistance from both Alan Wake fans and players skeptical about digital ownership, this does not guarantee that Firebreak will be exempt from controversy. Despite Game Director Mike Kayatta asserting that “Firebreak is its own, complete entity,” its connection to Control could make it vulnerable to similar levels of scrutiny.

As Remedy Entertainment’s First Multiplayer, FBC: Firebreak is Already Risky

To this point, Remedy has mainly concentrated on narrative-driven single-player games rather than multiplayer ones, making it challenging to compare their upcoming game, FBC: Firebreak, with any past titles. For example, BioWare, a developer renowned for story-rich RPGs, faced underperformance with its online multiplayer game Anthem, despite recent triumphs in Mass Effect 3 and Dragon Age: Inquisition. Given Remedy’s current focus and the possibility that they might utilize Control’s narrative and characters like Jesse Faden as an advantage, it’s uncertain whether FBC: Firebreak will achieve the same level of success as its other games.

FBC: Firebreak’s Digital-Only Release Could Reinforce A Precedent

By releasing FBC: Firebreak digitally-exclusive, potential buyers might hesitate due to doubts about its gameplay quality and the risk of cancellation if sales are weak. Yet, digital-only releases have thrived for online multiplayer games like Fortnite and Helldivers 2, despite Remedy’s games usually being single-player. If FBC: Firebreak manages to succeed against the odds, it could strengthen the studio’s stance on digital-only games, even amidst criticism faced by Alan Wake 2.

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2025-04-29 19:11