Remedy Vows FBC: Firebreak Fixes After Mixed Launch

Remedy has issued a frank statement acknowledging that "not everything went smoothly" with the launch of its multiplayer Control spin-off, FBC: Firebreak, and has laid out its plans for enhancing the game in the weeks ahead.

FBC: Firebreak released on June 17 but has already received a "mixed" user rating on Steam. Describing the launch as both "thrilling and nerve-wracking," developer Remedy informed players that their feedback has been heard "loud and clear," conceding that "certain features clearly need refinement, and those improvements are on the way."

"We are already rolling out enhancements to some features. While certain updates can be implemented immediately or very soon, others will take more time and require deeper consideration. We will keep you updated throughout the entire process.

"However, you're not looking for empty promises," the statement continued. "You want to know how we plan to improve your gameplay experience in FBC: Firebreak, so let's dive right in."

The team has quickly identified an issue with "the initial hour of gameplay," stating that FBC: Firebreak's opening segment did not provide "the best experience due to several factors." These included unclear onboarding, poorly explained game systems and tools, and "a lack of direction regarding Jobs and how to complete them efficiently." The developer also noted: "the power progression feels underwhelming early on, as starting weapons seem underpowered and acquiring higher-tier weapons demands excessive grinding."

As a result, Remedy aims to improve the onboarding process and interface clarity while making Jobs more accessible. This change means players will no longer need to complete the first two Clearance Levels for each Job, and new players will begin with a "full three-zone Hot Fix Job run." Plans are also in motion to speed up overall progression and equipment unlocks.

Remedy emphasizes that these adjustments are only the start, representing the "most immediate updates" for the game. The studio is also actively considering more extensive improvements based on ongoing player input.

FBC: Firebreak - Gameplay Screenshots

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"Despite occasional narrative gaps, there is plenty of enjoyment to be found battling unpredictable creatures within Remedy's wonderfully bizarre bureaucratic universe," we noted in IGN's FBC: Firebreak review in progress. "I will be playing more this week and finalizing the review once I have fully explored the bounds of Remedy's chaotic co-op job simulator."

Remedy has also confirmed its roadmap for ongoing post-launch support, including two new Jobs (missions) scheduled for 2025. Additional content updates are expected in 2026, according to the developer. All playable post-launch content, such as Jobs, will be free for all players. While cosmetic items will be available for purchase, these will not affect gameplay, and the studio assures there will be no time-limited rotations or mandatory daily log-ins.

It's a bustling period for the Alan Wake developer, with multiple projects underway. In addition to FBC: Firebreak, the studio is developing Control 2 and the Max Payne and Max Payne 2 remake compilation.