"FBC: Firebreak - The Unexpected Multiplayer FPS Hit"

When Remedy, renowned for their compelling single-player third-person narratives, announced they were venturing into multiplayer territory with *Control*, I was among the skeptics. However, after witnessing a hands-off demo of *FBC: Firebreak*, a three-player PvE first-person multiplayer shooter set six years after the events of *Control*, my doubts vanished. *Firebreak* stands out as refreshingly original in the crowded landscape of online shooters, offering a delightfully eccentric experience amidst the usual military and sci-fi themes. What's particularly appealing is its lack of demand for a significant time investment, as emphasized by game director Mike Kayatta: "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 philosophy is music to the ears of gamers tired of the grind.

*FBC: Firebreak* is designed as a three-player co-op FPS that you can dive into for a quick 20 minutes or extend into a few hours. With unlockable Perks and varied character combinations, the game ensures that repeated playthroughs remain engaging. But what's the setting? You find yourself back in The Oldest House, armed with an array of bizarre weapons, playing as volunteer first responders. These aren't hardened agents but secretaries, rangers, and others with "normal" jobs, stepping up when things go awry. The Federal Bureau of Control might not label you expendable, but let's be honest—you're expendable.

FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots

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Upon logging in, you'll choose a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (loadout), set the Threat Level (difficulty), and Clearance Level, which determines the number of zones you'll navigate in a run. These zones are divided by containment doors leading to the next Job stage. The demo showcased the "Paper Chase" Job, set in a mundane office section of the FBC building, where you and your teammates must combat the spreading Hiss. While you can escape quickly, staying longer to collect currencies for upgrading and purchasing gear increases the challenge of safely returning to HQ.

*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself with its uniquely crafted weapons, which have a charmingly homebrew feel. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that can extinguish fires and douse sticky-note monsters, to a zapper that can summon lightning storms, and a wrench that unleashes a coin storm when fitted with a squeaky piggy bank, the arsenal is both eclectic and fun. Don't worry, though; traditional weapons like machine guns and shotguns are also available, especially useful against the sticky-note monsters.

Speaking of those sticky-note monsters, your mission is to eliminate them before they overrun the building. Keep an eye on the number of sticky notes left to destroy, which increases throughout the mission, culminating in a battle against a colossal sticky-note monster reminiscent of Spider-Man 3's Sandman, but made of Post-It notes.

Beyond the unusual weaponry, *FBC: Firebreak* incorporates engaging in-universe mechanics. For instance, an office supply shelf refills ammo, a makeshift turret can be assembled from a box, a stereo speaker repels the Hiss, and a rinse station removes aggressive sticky notes. Unlockable Perks add further depth, such as one where missed bullets might return to your clip, and another allowing you to extinguish yourself by jumping. Collecting multiple Perks enhances their effects and can even be shared with nearby teammates.

You don't need a full team to enjoy *FBC: Firebreak*; it supports solo and duo play as well. Remedy is targeting a lower minimum PC spec, but the game will also support high-end features like DLSS4, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. It's Steam Deck verified and will launch into Xbox and PC Game Pass, PlayStation Plus Extra, and Premium on day one. While there's a post-launch content plan and paid cosmetics, microtransactions will be limited to these.

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While I haven't yet played *FBC: Firebreak*, it certainly impresses on first glance. It's far from a typical multiplayer shooter and offers a refreshing return to the era of shorter, more casual gaming sessions. The game's unique blend of creativity and accessibility is a promising sign for its future success.