Control: A Supernatural Thriller Wrapped in Brutalist Architecture!
Stepping into the world of Control is like plunging headfirst into a David Lynch film directed by a team of architects obsessed with brutalism. Remedy Entertainment, known for their narrative prowess in games like Max Payne and Alan Wake, crafts another gripping experience steeped in mystery and psychological tension. But this time, they’ve traded neon-lit noir streets for the stark, echoing hallways of the Oldest House, a secret government building shifting and morphing according to its own enigmatic will.
Unraveling the Mysteries of the Oldest House
You take on the role of Jesse Faden, a woman searching for her missing brother, Dylan, who vanished within the Oldest House’s labyrinthine depths. The House is more than just concrete and steel; it’s a nexus point for extradimensional energies, harboring otherworldly entities known as Hiss.
Infected by the Hiss, the employees of the Federal Bureau of Control – the agency tasked with monitoring paranormal phenomena – have become twisted parodies of their former selves. They wander the halls muttering cryptic phrases, attacking anyone they perceive as a threat. Jesse, armed with her trusty service weapon, the “Grip” which she can transform into a variety of firearms and telekinetic tools, must navigate this perilous environment, confront these corrupted individuals, and ultimately uncover the truth behind the Oldest House’s origins and Dylan’s disappearance.
A Symphony of Superpowers and Shifting Reality
Control’s gameplay is a delightful fusion of third-person shooter mechanics and supernatural abilities. Jesse’s powers – telekinesis, levitation, and the ability to create destructible shields – allow for creative combat approaches and environmental manipulation. Want to fling a concrete pillar at a Hiss-controlled enemy? Go for it! Need to levitate yourself over a chasm filled with otherworldly goo? You got it.
But Control doesn’t stop there. The Oldest House itself is a character, constantly shifting and evolving around Jesse. Doors lead to unexpected locations, hallways twist and turn into impossible geometries, and reality glitches in unsettling ways. This dynamic environment adds an element of surprise and unpredictability to the gameplay, forcing you to stay on your toes and adapt to the ever-changing surroundings.
| Power | Description |
|---|---|
| Telekinesis | Throw objects, enemies, and even pull yourself towards targets |
| Levitate | Float through the air and access previously unreachable areas |
| Shield | Create a protective barrier that deflects projectiles |
| Launch | Propel yourself forward with telekinetic force |
Themes of Control and Identity
Beyond its thrilling gameplay, Control delves into thought-provoking themes of control, identity, and the nature of reality. Jesse’s journey to find her brother intertwines with a deeper exploration of power dynamics and the seductive allure of unchecked influence.
The Hiss, representing a force that seeks to dominate and corrupt, embody the dangers of surrendering control. Meanwhile, Jesse’s struggle to master her own abilities reflects the complex nature of identity formation in a world where reality itself is fluid and malleable.
A Visual and Auditory Masterpiece
Control’s presentation is simply stunning. The game boasts breathtaking graphics that capture the stark beauty of the Oldest House’s brutalist architecture, from its towering concrete pillars to its dimly lit corridors.
The sound design further immerses you in this uncanny world with unsettling ambient noises, haunting melodies, and the chilling whispers of the Hiss-infected.
A Must-Play for Action Game Enthusiasts
Control is a masterclass in storytelling and game design. Its combination of thrilling action, intriguing narrative, and captivating atmosphere makes it a must-play experience for fans of the action genre. Whether you’re drawn to its supernatural thriller elements, its mind-bending environments, or simply its exceptional craftsmanship, Control will leave a lasting impression long after you’ve put down the controller.