Developer Remedy has stated that Control Resonant will offer a wealth of lore, despite recent promotional materials emphasizing combat. Senior communications manager Miika Huttunen explained that the decision to highlight combat in previews was a strategic choice, as combat elements can be showcased without spoiling narrative surprises. The game will feature a significant amount of story content, including twists and turns that players can uncover upon release.
Huttunen encouraged fans to trust Remedy's track record, assuring them that the narrative side of Control Resonant is being carefully managed. Players will be able to piece together the story through various methods, including dialogue with non-player characters, discovering lore-related collectibles such as FBC documents and materials from before the Hiss invasion, and interpreting subtle environmental clues. Exploration and a deliberate pace will be rewarded, as the world of Control Resonant is as intricately crafted as its predecessor, with the story being far from an afterthought.
Control Resonant will also incorporate player choices in dialogue, which will subtly alter NPC reactions, introduce variations in side quests, and contribute to the gradual development of the player character's personality. While the main story is described as largely linear with a single ending, Remedy suggests it will be impactful and surprising.
The gameplay glimpses shown so far, including a segment at Gamescom, have depicted a transformed Manhattan, requiring gravity shifts to navigate its altered architecture. Players will contend with various grotesque enemies, including the Mold. The protagonist, Dylan, a test subject turned paranatural entity, is central to the unfolding narrative, with players uncovering the story of the city and Dylan's past simultaneously.
Combat in the game has been described as fluid and adaptable, with Dylan utilizing the Aberrant, a shapeshifting melee weapon. Players will build a Falter gauge to execute powerful blows and will need to employ an aggressive strategy, as Dylan regains health primarily through defeating enemies. The game will not feature a parry mechanic, reinforcing its focus on proactive engagement.
Between combat encounters, players can retreat to The Gap, a liminal space for practicing moves against different enemy types, changing loadouts, acquiring new Artifacts for bonuses, and upgrading abilities. Returning to the game world from The Gap results in a penalty, as all enemies and challenges will have been strengthened and scaled to the player's progression. The combination of detailed environments, dynamic combat, and extensive lore discovery suggests Control Resonant aims to meet player expectations.
