FBC: Firebreak reminds us that the Bureau of Control is a very unsafe workspace

by

In the Federal Bureau of Control, tasks always seem challenging. Since Remedy introduced this agency with the fitting title “Control”, it’s been grappling with all kinds of extraordinary events across the Remedy storyline. Now, in Firebreak, these anomalies have returned to haunt us and it falls upon us to eliminate them. Recently, I was given a sneak peek at Firebreak by Remedy, and we were left with a strong impression of a typical day’s work at the FBC.

The office is a little eerie

In FBC: Firebreak, you assume the role of a team member from an unusual task force within the Federal Bureau of Investigation called Firebreak (hence FBC: Firebreak). The game depicts supernatural forces launching a full-scale attack on the Bureau, and it’s our responsibility to fix the damage and drive them away. Over the course of playing, you have the opportunity to experience three distinct Job roles, which are the missions within the game. Additionally, we were given a chance to test out several Kits, which can be compared to classes in terms of abilities and skills.

In this game, tasks involve completing objective-driven missions with an extraction-style shooting focus. You traverse through different areas within the Bureau, carrying out necessary duties, and then promptly exit via an elevator before the situation escalates too much. Tasks we undertook ranged from repairing FBC machinery and buildings, eliminating specific anomalous creatures, to gathering energy sources from abnormalities for transportation in a cart. As you progress, more formidable supernatural adversaries emerge, such as flaming zombies, entities seated on hovering chairs that fire energy orbs, and heavily armed riot gear zombies wielding grenade launchers. The key to survival lies in completing tasks swiftly and escaping quickly.

Absolutely, just like the Kits, as I mentioned earlier, we had three options at our disposal: the Fix Kit, Splash Kit, and Jump Kit. It was crucial for us to utilize each one effectively in order to achieve success. The Fix Kit comes equipped with a large wrench that can be used not only to repair various gear like ammo stations and chemical showers (to rid ourselves of dangerous supernatural substances), but also as a weapon to stun enemies. The Splash Kit equips us with a water cannon capable of extinguishing fires and dousing enemies. This is particularly useful when paired with the Jump Kit, which offers an electric discharge gun that can be charged for electrocuting enemies or repairing electrical equipment.

In a simplified manner, you appreciated Kits’ engagement with the game environment. For example, if you utilize the Jump Kit to shock wet adversaries, the charge will hop among them. It appears that there are numerous interactions with the surroundings between these kits that make them all useful. You can also unlock additional items for the kits to keep things interesting. Firebreak has an unlock chain called Requisitions which allows you to get new equipment, cosmetics, and more as you accomplish tasks. After a few assignments, I unlocked a Humidifier tool for the Splash Kit that, when deployed, would scatter water around it and heal players nearby. Additionally, I observed an automated turret for the Fix Kit within Requisitions.

Indeed, much of this wouldn’t be significant if the gunfights weren’t engaging, but they seem quite good thus far. Initially, we had access to a revolver, shotgun, and submachine gun, with more potent options becoming available as we progressed through requisitions. The revolver and shotgun delivered a powerful punch, while the submachine gun offered a more adaptable and crowd-dispersing alternative. The sensation when you struck an enemy in the head with something like a revolver round was also gratifying. I’m eager to see what stronger weapons will bring later on.

We’re working overtime

One aspect that truly stands out about FBC: Firebreak, is Remedy’s clever incorporation of humor into the gameplay. It seems these individuals treat their work as an office day, even extending it to the gear they carry in Jobs. I found myself feeling like a Ghostbuster just as much as a combatant, which was unexpected yet cool. I eagerly anticipate seeing how the Kits develop further and what new job scenarios we’ll encounter when it’s released. One thing is certain, those tough Firebreak soldiers should definitely be compensated for their risks!

The game, Firebreak, is set to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on June 17, 2025. This release is an early version of the game that was previously previewed by the publisher.

Read More

2025-05-14 16:54