The gaming community is buzzing with excitement as Epic Games announces the latest title to be offered for free on its platform: Control, the critically acclaimed action-adventure game from Remedy Entertainment. This promotion, part of Epic's annual holiday giveaway, allows gamers to add the innovative title, which has garnered significant praise, to their libraries without spending a dime until 6PM UK time.
Originally released back in August 2019, Control marked Remedy’s ambitious return to its own intellectual properties following the success of Quantum Break. The game was developed on a €30 million budget, which, when compared to the vast resources typically allocated for triple-A titles, is relatively modest. Yet, Control managed to carve out its niche, achieving over 4.5 million units sold, showcasing not only Remedy's gaming prowess but also the class of their storytelling and design capabilities.
Control radiates with originality, as it places players inside the enigmatic Federal Bureau of Control, where protagonist Jesse Faden embarks on a mission not only to find her long-lost brother but also to quell supernatural threats plaguing the agency. Indeed, the game is set within the Remedy Connected Universe, intertwining its storyline with other notable titles like Alan Wake, strengthening its narrative allure for fans.
"Control features Remedy's most original setting yet, the studio's most open-ended game environment yet and great action combat..." noted one enthusiastic reviewer, emphasizing the game's ability to engage the player with its richly crafted atmospheres and thrilling gameplay.
For those unfamiliar with the game, this free offering is nothing short of timely, allowing many gamers the opportunity to experience its unique blend of meta-narrative and innovative mechanics, such as the psychic Service Weapon—an iconic element of gameplay capable of transforming to suit various combat styles. Jesse’s thrilling battles against paranormal entities will have newcomers gripped as players navigate through the eerily captivating environments of the ever-shifting Oldest House.
Not only is Control lauded for its captivating gameplay, but it's also celebrated for its impressive visual aesthetic. It stands out as one of the finest examples of real-time ray tracing available on PC, pushing the graphical boundaries of modern gaming. Remedy’s attention to detail ensures players feel immersed within this beautifully bleak universe, intended to enthrall both action-adventure gamers and newcomers to the genre alike.
Despite its previous accolades, including winning the award for Best Art Direction at The Game Awards and being the recipient of numerous nominations, Control's storyline has not lost its relevance. The game is poised to expand, with its sequel already announced as U.S.-based Remedy gives fans tantalizing hints of what lies beyond. "...the fact is Control is set to get a sequel..." voiced another excited reporter, illuminating the anticipation surrounding the next entry in the franchise. With rumors swirling and teasers hidden within recent DLC for Alan Wake 2, players remain eager for details about Control 2, which Remedy is describing as an 'action-RPG.'
The combination of its acclaimed narrative and gameplay mechanics make Control not just another title but rather an experience worth exploring, especially when offered for free through the Epic Games Store. To add to the excitement, it’s noted by some commentators as their personal Game of the Year from 2019; Jesse’s thrilling quests and the captivating world she inhabits provide gamers with the kind of narrative depth often sought but rarely found.
For those wishing to immerse themselves fully, it's worth noting the availability of Control's Season Pass, presently on offer for just £3.59, which gives access to the DLC content connecting it to Remedy’s other narrative-heavy games.
With the impending transition to the upcoming sequel, Control nonetheless takes center stage this holiday season as it reinvigorates interest, lures back fans, and entices potential newcomers to step inside its mysterious and exhilarating world. Amidst the seasonal festivities, Epic Games is providing the perfect opportunity for players to seize their chance to step out of reality and confront the supernatural challenges awaiting them within the Federal Bureau of Control.
So, don’t miss the deadline—until just before 6PM UK time, players can claim Control for free on the Epic Games Store, ensuring they experience the gripping blend of action, adventure, and mystery crafted by Remedy.
