Control Resonant: Open World Action Combat & Character Focus

Did you ever finish Control and think, "Man, I wish I could explore that weird world more freely and smash things with a bit more style?" Well, good news: Remedy is cooking up a follow-up called Control Resonant, and it's shaking up the formula in some big ways.

According to the source, Control Resonant moves to action combat and an open world. That's a pretty major shift from the original's more contained, Metroidvania-style level design. If you played the first game, you know it was all about tight corridors, brutalist architecture, and that eerie sense of being trapped in a shifting government building. Now, it sounds like you'll have a lot more room to roam—and a lot more ways to fight.

The combat itself is getting a full action makeover. The original had you juggling telekinesis and a service weapon, but it was often more about crowd control and survival than pure spectacle. With Resonant, expect faster, more aggressive encounters that lean into the action side of things. Think less "careful positioning" and more "go in and cause some paranatural chaos."

But it's not just about bigger maps and flashier fights. The source also notes that Resonant tells a more character-focused story. The first Control had a fascinating world, but its protagonist, Jesse Faden, was somewhat reserved. Here, it sounds like Remedy is putting more emphasis on personal relationships and emotional stakes. That could mean deeper interactions, more backstory, and a narrative that hits you right in the feels—all while keeping that signature paranatural edge that made the original so memorable.

So what does this mean for you? If you loved Control for its atmosphere and lore, you'll still get that weird, wonderful vibe. But if you wished it had a bit more open-ended exploration and combat that felt more like a blockbuster action game, Resonant might be exactly what you're looking for. It's a bold direction for Remedy, and it'll be interesting to see how they balance the old with the new.

Of course, we don't have all the details yet—no release date, no platforms, no gameplay footage. But the mere fact that Remedy is willing to evolve the Control formula this much is exciting. It shows they're not just resting on their laurels; they're pushing the paranatural envelope.

What do you think about Control going open world and action-heavy? Are you here for the change, or do you prefer the tighter, more focused original? Let us know in the comments!