When Remedy Entertainment, renowned for their captivating single-player narratives in third-person games, announced their venture into a multiplayer arena with *FBC: Firebreak*, skepticism was understandable. Yet, after witnessing a hands-off demo of this three-player PvE first-person shooter set six years post-*Control*, it's evident that our doubts were misplaced. *Firebreak* stands out as an original gem in a crowded market, offering a delightfully quirky twist on the typical military and sci-fi shooters, and refreshingly, it doesn't demand a heavy time investment. As game director Mike Kayatta emphasized, "We're not about daily check-ins. We're not interested in monthly grinds. We don't want to give anybody a second job."
*FBC: Firebreak* promises a streamlined three-player co-op FPS experience that you can enjoy in short bursts or extended sessions, with Perk unlocks and character combinations adding variety to repeated plays. In this game, you step into the shoes of volunteer first responders within The Oldest House during chaotic outbreaks. Playing as characters with everyday jobs like secretaries and rangers, you're essentially the FBC's front line, albeit considered expendable.
FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots
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Upon logging in, you select a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (loadout), and set the Threat and Clearance Levels to determine your challenge and the number of zones to navigate. These zones are segmented by containment doors, leading you through the stages of your Job. The demo showcased a Job called "Paper Chase," set in an office area of the FBC, where you and your team combat the spreading Hiss. The longer you explore for currency to upgrade and purchase gear, the more challenging your escape back to HQ becomes.
*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself with uniquely crafted weapons that exude a DIY charm. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that extinguishes fires and soaks sticky-note monsters to a zapper that can unleash lightning storms when modified, and even a wrench that, when fitted with a piggy bank toy, showers foes with coins—the arsenal is both bizarre and functional. Classic weapons like machine guns and shotguns also make an appearance, particularly useful against the aforementioned sticky-note monsters.
The core of the "Paper Chase" Job involves clearing out sticky notes before they overrun the building. The number of notes left to destroy is displayed, escalating as you progress, culminating in a showdown with a colossal sticky-note monster reminiscent of Spider-Man 3's Sandman, but made of Post-It notes.
Beyond the inventive weaponry, *FBC: Firebreak* integrates playful in-game mechanics. From office supply shelves that replenish ammo, to makeshift turrets assembled from boxes, and stereo speakers that repel the Hiss, these elements enrich the gameplay. Unlockable Perks further diversify the experience, like bullets potentially returning to your clip upon missing, or extinguishing yourself by jumping. Stacking the same Perk enhances its effect, and sharing it with teammates is possible with three of the same Perk.
Flexibility in player count is another highlight; you can play solo, in duos, or as intended with three players. Remedy aims for a lower minimum PC spec while supporting advanced features like DLSS4, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. The game is set to be Steam Deck verified and will launch on day one into Xbox and PC Game Pass, PlayStation Plus Extra, and Premium. While a post-launch content plan remains under wraps, paid cosmetics will be the only microtransactions.
FBC FirebreakRemedy Wishlist
Although I haven't played *FBC: Firebreak* yet, the game certainly looks promising. It's clear this isn't your average multiplayer shooter, and its design as a quick, enjoyable experience harks back to a time when such games didn't demand extensive time commitments. This approach is both refreshing and welcome in today's gaming landscape.
