FBC: Firebreak review: I want to love this game, but it’s not quite there yet

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Currently, it’s particularly tough for newcomers to make a mark in the multiplayer shooting game niche. As an Editor at Gamepressure’s News Section, I frequently report on server closures, studio shutdowns, and various industry-related events within this gaming sector. Notably, even giants like Sony, Warner Bros., and Ubisoft have faced difficulties in establishing a presence in the most profitable game category. Given that Remedy Entertainment, known for their 2023 critically acclaimed title Alan Wake 2 and the hit Control from 2019, decided to venture away from their single-player action-adventure background and explore a multiplayer shooter instead, I must admit my initial doubts.

In my perspective, as someone not deeply invested in multiplayer games, it seemed like FBC: Firebreak‘s multiplayer aspect was tailored for people like me. Unlike many other live-service games, it wouldn’t be free-to-play, avoiding the need to rely on microtransactions and battle passes for profit. Instead, it was set in the Federal Bureau of Control, a familiar location from the game Control, which was further developed in Alan Wake 2. The unique missions shown, involving battling hordes of multiplying sticky notes that could eventually transform you into a humanoid pile of sticky notes, were the kind of strange, supernatural stories that set FBC: Firebreak apart from other games. These elements perfectly embody the charm that Remedy’s games are renowned for.

Although the game, FBC: Firebreak, seems promising with its creative ideas, strategies, and concepts, I find it somewhat monotonous and dull when actually playing. Despite its potential, the current version feels barren and repetitive, lacking the excitement that one would expect in a game of this kind. However, with community feedback and updates, I envision FBC: Firebreak transforming into an exceptional title, possibly even surpassing Left 4 Dead 2. But for now, its unique charm and intelligent design aren’t sufficient to distinguish its mediocre gameplay in the highly competitive gaming market.

Taking On Jobs

In simpler terms, “Firebreak” is a first-person shooter game that can be played by up to three people, and it’s set within the universe created by Remedy Entertainment, specifically in the Federal Bureau of Control’s headquarters, called The Oldest House. Since the Bureau handles unusual occurrences around the world, things often get out of hand. That’s where the Firebreak team steps in, and you, along with two other players if desired, take on the role of this team to tackle the dangerous areas within the office complex. Your objective is to control and minimize various issues, which are referred to as “jobs” within the game.

As a fan, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the main mission they’ve been teasing, titled ‘Paper Chase.’ This isn’t your typical office task; it’s more like a sticky note purge! The goal is to clear out thousands of adhesive notes before they spread across the entire workspace like an unruly infection.

Throughout this mission, I’ll be squaring off against waves of adversaries known as ‘hiss.’ These foes come in various forms, from melee-oriented, zombie-esque units to those armed with guns, and even some that float around on office chairs. There are also heavily armored enemies with vulnerable spots on their backs. It’s going to be a challenging yet thrilling ride!

Across all five positions, teamwork is strongly promoted. There are three options for equipment packages to select from, and players aren’t required to pick distinct roles. The “Fix” package includes a wrench for swiftly repairing machines, the “Splash” package offers a water-powered gun to extinguish fires and a device to heal teammates, while the “Jump” package can fire electric charges to activate certain devices or momentarily stun opponents. Each equipment set is beneficial for every job, but not mandatory. You’re free to handle tasks like putting out fires or jumpstarting devices manually using your own hands if desired.

PROS:

  1. Quirky, weird Remedy charm;
  2. clever concepts for jobs and unique ideas for player classes;
  3. maps can feel empty outside of objectives.

CONS:

  1. Gameplay can get repetitive;
  2. objectives can feel tedious;
  3. maps can feel empty outside of objectives.

Multiplayer vs. Solo

In much the same vein, you don’t necessarily need companions to enjoy this game. Although it shines brightest in multiplayer settings, finding a group can sometimes be tricky, especially during early access. Thus, I did engage in solo play sessions, and while they weren’t as pleasurable as the company of friendly players, they still had their moments. In fact, I remember one instance where I played alone in a three-zone game that left me on my last respawn and took about an hour to complete. It was quite an adventure! The intensity was heightened since I didn’t have a teammate to revive me when I fell or watch my back as I reloaded ammo. Granted, it’s not something I’d want every time I play, but the challenge was worth trying at least once.

Among the memorable moments I had while playing FBC: Firebreak was during Summer Game Fest, where I had the pleasure of gathering with two other players in person around a booth. It’s uncommon for an online multiplayer game like this to offer such local co-op play. In the hour we spent playing together, we managed to tackle approximately two and a half roles, but our second assignment abruptly ended, as all three of us had reached our respawn limit. This predicament was partially due to me employing my ultimate ability, conjuring an electrical storm with garden gnomes that inadvertently harmed my companions more than the enemies.

As a gaming enthusiast, I must say that titles like Firebreak: Firebreak are what truly captivate me. It’s not just another game; it pushes boundaries and delivers on so many unique fronts. Even when things don’t go as planned, it maintains an eccentric charm reminiscent of Remedy Studios. Who else would make a garden gnome that zaps enemies and allies with lightning such a central element? Firebreak may have fallen short in some areas, but it certainly showcases promise, a promising first attempt that’s worth keeping an eye on.

A Clever Concept

In a shift from their usual narrative-focused, single-player games, FBC: Firebreak, developed by Remedy, ventured into the realm of cooperative multiplayer shooters. This is a significant departure for them, as a live-service game or not, it’s a completely different challenge. Reflecting on this, it’s understandable that FBC: Firebreak may not have reached perfection. However, the team at Remedy did introduce some innovative ideas for a cooperative shooter. Each of the three kits has been thoughtfully designed and balanced, offering versatility in various situations and even working effectively together with other kits. An unusual concept like sticky notes overrunning an office might seem absurd, but Remedy successfully balances the silliness with an underlying sense of genuine intimidation as well.

It’s inspiring to notice such a variety of original ideas in their initial foray into this genre of game. This fills me with optimism that they will continue to think creatively, whether they refine FBC: Firebreak over the coming year or utilize the insights gained here to create another game that lives up to its concept in the future.

Over the past several years, the video game industry has been unforgiving towards games that don’t immediately attract a large player base. Even developers of popular games like Marvel Rivals can find themselves out of work. However, Remedy Entertainment is different from many other studios. They are an independent company and aren’t afraid to take their time on projects they care about deeply. For instance, the sequel to Alan Wake, titled Alan Wake 2, was released thirteen years after the original game, not because the developers had forgotten about it. When a team tries something new, they require the opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them. I have confidence that Remedy is the type of studio that can give this game the time it needs to succeed, and perhaps even provide a second chance for the team behind FBC: Firebreak to perfect their work in the future. Of course, this is mostly my hopeful outlook; only time will tell what happens in the upcoming months.

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2025-06-25 11:02