Mastering Control Resonant: Essential Strategies for New Players
The launch of Control Resonant is officially upon us, offering players a chance to dive back into the surreal, mind-bending world crafted by Remedy Entertainment. If you have navigated the corridors of the Oldest House before, you know that this experience is distinct from standard action titles. While the game maintains deep narrative ties to its predecessor, it introduces a suite of fresh progression systems and combat mechanics that demand a strategic approach. Once you move past the initial hour and the game world of Manhattan expands, the sheer scale of the environment can feel daunting.
To ensure you aren’t left scrambling against the Hiss, the encroaching Mold, or the unpredictable anomalies of the Patterning, we have compiled 15 expert strategies to help you dominate the battlefield. Here is how to get a head start.
Optimizing Your Early-Game Aberrant Loadout
One of the first major decisions you will face involves selecting your Primary and Secondary Aberrant forms. While every form eventually finds its place in the late-game meta, your initial choices significantly impact your survivability during the opening chapters.
For your Primary slot, prioritize the Glaive or the Flurry. The Glaive provides essential reach, allowing you to pick off threats from a distance, while the Flurry’s rapid-fire nature makes it an excellent foundation for building a high-critical-hit damage output as you upgrade it. When it comes to your Secondary form, the decision is more tactical. We highly recommend the Hammer; its ability to deal Blunt damage and trigger the “Falter” status effect is invaluable for crowd control. Alternatively, the Drill is a top-tier pick once you unlock its first upgrade, as it grants you the ability to apply the “Weakened” debuff to enemies, making them significantly easier to dismantle.
Navigating the Manhattan Expansion
As you transition from the linear introduction into the open-ended exploration of Manhattan, remember that resource management is key. Much like how a seasoned hiker packs for changing weather, you must adapt your loadout to the specific threats of each sector. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your ability trees early on; the game rewards players who lean into specific playstyles rather than trying to be a jack-of-all-trades. Keep an eye on your energy reserves, as the new environmental hazards in Control Resonant are designed to punish reckless movement.
