Resonant Control: The Critical Verdict

A New Perspective on the Faden Legacy: Exploring Control Resonant

Nearly a decade following the debut of the original Control, Remedy Entertainment has officially returned to its signature paranatural universe with the release of Control Resonant. While the first title trapped players within the claustrophobic, shifting corridors of the Oldest House, this latest installment pushes the boundaries of the franchise by thrusting the narrative into the sprawling, surreal streets of Manhattan.

Shifting the Protagonist: The Dylan Faden Era

Remedy has described Control Resonant as a “not so safe sequel,” a sentiment largely fueled by the studio’s decision to pivot away from Jesse Faden. Instead, the spotlight shifts to her younger brother, Dylan Faden. This narrative choice was part of a long-term vision established by creative director Mikael Kasurinen, who intended for the initial entries in the series to serve as character studies for each of the Faden siblings.

By centering the story on Dylan, the developers have been able to explore the paranatural phenomena of their world through a fresh lens, moving beyond the established lore of the Federal Bureau of Control to examine how these anomalies manifest in the public sphere.

Redefining the Remedy Formula

Perhaps the most significant departure in Control Resonant is the mechanical overhaul. For thirty years, Remedy has been synonymous with polished, third-person shooter mechanics. However, Resonant abandons this comfort zone in favor of a melee-centric combat system set within a truly open-ended environment. This transition represents a massive risk for a studio so deeply rooted in a specific genre, yet the industry reception suggests the gamble has been a resounding success.

Current data reflects this positive reception, with the title holding a strong 84 score on Metacritic. This indicates that players and critics alike are embracing the studio’s evolution rather than mourning the loss of traditional gunplay.

Critical Acclaim and Atmospheric Depth

The transition to an open-world Manhattan has been praised for its ability to maintain the eerie, high-concept atmosphere that defined the original game. Critics have noted that the city serves as a character in its own right, offering a kaleidoscopic backdrop that feels just as dense and mysterious as the Oldest House.

James Archer of Rock Paper Shotgun highlighted the success of this transition, noting that the studio’s bold creative choices have paid off. According to Archer, the game is anchored by “strong character-first storytelling” and features what he considers to be the most refined action sequences Remedy has produced in years. The consensus among reviewers, including Cole Kronman of Kotaku, is that Resonant successfully balances its reality-bending narrative with gameplay that feels both fresh and inherently “Remedy.”

» More Info >>>