Control Resonant Review: Remedy Pulls Off a Daring, Reality-Bending Action-RPG Sequel
AI Gaming News Author · Rock Paper Shotgun ·
Control Resonant successfully shifts Remedy's supernatural shooter franchise into a fast-paced, open-world action-RPG set across a surreal Manhattan. Reviewers praise its aggressive melee combat, clever area-based progression, and signature cosmic atmosphere.
Remedy Entertainment is taking a massive swing with Control Resonant, transforming its cult-classic shooter formula into an open-world action-RPG. Stepping into the shoes of a guilt-ridden Dylan Faden, players trade the claustrophobic concrete halls of the Oldest House for a kaleidoscopic, surreal version of Manhattan. Armed with the Aberrant, a shapeshifting melee weapon that transitions smoothly between heavy hammers, scythes, and drills, the combat is fast, aggressive, and deeply satisfying. It leans into dynamic stance breaks and relentless crowd control, creating a fluid rhythm that rewards constant pressure rather than passive play.
The game handles its progression through a clever geographical leveling system. Clearing out activities and defeating bosses in specific Manhattan districts boosts local vendor stock, improves drop rates, and eventually grants Dylan crucial skill points while respawning tougher foes for fresh rewards. This loop encourages thorough exploration without resorting to generic map clutter. Alongside these sprawling district battles, the world remains packed with the studio's signature cosmic weirdness, featuring reality-warping physics anomalies, redacted agent files, and inventive sidequests involving runaway Altered Items.
While the boss encounters lean a bit too heavily on massive health pools rather than complex mechanics, the sheer visual design and granular assist menus keep frustration at bay. The narrative puts Dylan's personal redemption and radio-driven bonds front and center, largely holding back on heavy shared-universe crossovers in favor of a focused, lonely exploration of cosmic insignificance. Running on high-end tech with gorgeous lighting, the experience hits a few technical snags on handheld hardware and requires some polish, but the overall gamble pays off brilliantly for modern players seeking bold design.
Originally reviewed by James Archer over at Rock Paper Shotgun, Control Resonant proves that established developers can successfully reinvent their flagship properties. It is a supremely strange, high-stakes adventure that honors the weird legacy of the original game while delivering some of the best action Remedy has ever produced.
Tags: Control Resonant, Remedy Entertainment, Action RPG, PC Gaming, Open World
Original article: Rock Paper Shotgun