Remedy's latest, Control Resonant, struggles to match the tight, confident structure of its predecessor, Control. The sequel's initial hours are largely spent traversing a bland, repetitive rendition of Manhattan, a stark contrast to the original's uniquely memorable Federal Bureau of Control headquarters, The Oldest House. This new setting, while intended to expand the game's scope, ultimately bogs down the experience.
The Oldest House, the setting for the original Control, served as a character in itself. Its brutalist architecture and oppressive office environment were the perfect canvas for the game's uncanny phenomena. The gradual introduction of supernatural elements into this mundane setting created a cohesive and unsettling atmosphere, mirroring the game's escalating difficulty and deepening weirdness. This masterful blend of the familiar and the impossible was a significant factor in Control's acclaimed status.
Control Resonant picks up seven years after the events of the first game. While it begins in the familiar confines of The Oldest House, it quickly shifts to a glitched-out version of Manhattan. This urban environment, however, lacks the distinctiveness of its predecessor. The repeating signs, recurring stores, and uniform architecture create a sense of generic vagueness, feeling more like a generic stand-in city than a recognizable New York. This lack of unique identity makes navigating the world a tedious affair.
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This deliberate emptiness and repetition, perhaps an attempt to comment on quiet city streets or expand on Control's signature strangeness, ultimately drains Resonant of the charm and impact of the original. While the game does eventually lean into Remedy's signature weirdness in its latter half, making for memorable moments comparable to the first game, the journey to reach this point is arduous. The excessive time spent in the uninspired Manhattan environment feels like busywork, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
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Remedy games are typically known for their strong, distinct identities, often drawing inspiration from cult media. Control Resonant, however, fails to establish this immediate sense of character. The sequel's highs may rival those of the original Control, but the excessive patience and persistence required to experience them make it a questionable bargain for players.