Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

FBC: Firebreak

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of FBC: Firebreak
Item: FBC: Firebreak
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableJun 17, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperRemedy Entertainment

Overview

FBC: Firebreak is a 3-player cooperative first-person shooter set within the enigmatic Federal Bureau of Control (FBC). As the Bureau’s headquarters faces a deadly and prolonged siege by otherworldly forces, only Firebreak—its most adaptable response unit—has the skills and courage to restore order.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak garners mixed reviews, praised for its unique premise and humorous tone but criticized for a stark lack of narrative depth and character development. While some appreciate its charm and embedded stories, the overwhelming consensus is that it fails to deliver the compelling storytelling fans expect from Remedy. Critics highlight its disconnect from the Control universe and a focus on gameplay mechanics at the expense of a substantial narrative, leaving players disappointed and wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions regarding the story of FBC: Firebreak reveal a range of perspectives, with some critics highlighting the game's unique premise and its attempt to carve out a niche within the established universe of Control. For instance, Game8 notes that the game manages to create its own narrative, albeit lacking in complexity. Critics like GameGrin appreciate the small narratives embedded within each job, suggesting that the writing, while minimal, contributes to a unique atmosphere. Additionally, GameSpot mentions the game's comedic and colorful narrative, blending bureaucracy with supernatural elements, which aligns with Remedy's signature tone and may appeal to players looking for a lighter experience. However, the overwhelming sentiment among reviewers is that FBC: Firebreak suffers from a significant lack of narrative depth and engagement. TechRadar Gaming and XboxEra both emphasize the absence of a compelling story, with the latter pointing out that it pales in comparison to its predecessor, Control. Many critics, including GameMAG and SpazioGames, describe the story as minimal and forgettable, with insufficient character development and context. The game’s shift away from traditional storytelling, as noted by GamingTrend and Digital Chumps, leaves players feeling disconnected and confused, particularly those unfamiliar with the Control universe. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while FBC: Firebreak has a fresh premise and some charming elements, it ultimately fails to deliver a substantial narrative experience. Many reviewers, such as ElDesmarque and Slant Magazine, express disappointment over the lack of depth and engagement, suggesting that the game feels disconnected from the rich storytelling associated with Remedy's previous titles. The game appears to prioritize gameplay mechanics over narrative, leading to a mixed reception where the fun aspects of gameplay are overshadowed by the narrative shortcomings that leave players wanting more.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak has received mixed reviews, praised for its cooperative gameplay and unique class mechanics, but heavily criticized for its repetitiveness and lack of engaging content. While some enjoy the teamwork aspect, many find the missions monotonous and the gunplay unsatisfying, leading to a disappointing overall experience that fails to maintain long-term player engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of FBC: Firebreak has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its cooperative elements and class-based mechanics. Reviewers like Shacknews and GameGrin highlighted the engaging nature of the cooperative play, noting that the distinct Kits provide unique abilities that encourage teamwork and strategic collaboration. MeuPlayStation praised the FPS mechanics, describing the gameplay as brutal and addictive, emphasizing the need for players to manage crises while completing objectives. Additionally, some critics, such as CGMagazine and Stevivor, appreciated the chaotic and frantic nature of the gameplay, suggesting that the variety in roles and objectives can lead to engaging experiences when played with friends. However, a significant number of critics have pointed out substantial flaws in the gameplay, primarily revolving around repetitiveness and a lack of engaging mechanics. The Jimquisition and GameMAG both criticized the gameplay for being monotonous, with repetitive missions that fail to inspire excitement. Many reviewers echoed this sentiment, with GamesRadar+ and TechRadar Gaming noting that the missions often feel tedious and lack the depth seen in the original Control. Critics like ElDesmarque and Try Hard Guides emphasized that the gunplay and combat mechanics feel unsatisfying and basic, leading to a dull experience that can quickly exhaust players. The consensus among many reviewers is that while the cooperative mechanics have potential, the overall execution suffers from a lack of variety and depth. Overall, the critics' consensus on FBC: Firebreak leans towards disappointment, with a clear divide between the appreciation for its cooperative gameplay and the criticism of its repetitiveness and lack of engaging content. While some reviewers, such as Gameliner and Gaming Nexus, acknowledged the potential for enjoyable teamwork and unique mission structures, the overwhelming feedback indicates that the gameplay quickly becomes tedious due to its formulaic structure and limited variety. The game appears to struggle in maintaining long-term engagement, with many critics, including PC Gamer and GameCritics, suggesting that despite some interesting concepts, the execution ultimately falls flat, leading to a lackluster experience overall.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak boasts impressive graphics and a unique retro-futurist aesthetic that some critics laud for enhancing the immersive experience, thanks to the Northlight engine. However, opinions are split; while some praise the visuals, others criticize them as static and plagued by performance issues, with many feeling they fall short of the high standards set by Remedy's previous titles. Overall, the game’s visuals are a mixed bag that may not fully satisfy fans expecting innovation and polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of FBC: Firebreak reveal a mix of appreciation for its aesthetic qualities and the technical prowess of the Northlight engine. Critics like Gameliner and COGconnected commend the game for its impressive graphics and strong art direction, highlighting the engaging visual presentation that enhances the overall experience. The game is noted for its detailed environments, effective use of lighting and shadows, and a unique retro-futurist aesthetic that resonates well with fans of Remedy's previous titles. Critics such as Hobby Consolas and KeenGamer also appreciate how the visuals maintain the distinct atmosphere of the Control universe, contributing to an immersive gameplay experience. However, not all reviews are favorable, as several critics point out significant drawbacks. ElDesmarque criticizes the visual design as static and lacking personality, while GameMAG highlights technical issues such as performance drops and graphical artifacts during intense gameplay moments. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Games.cz echo these sentiments, suggesting that the visuals do not reach the heights of previous Remedy titles and feel somewhat dated or inconsistent. Some reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and The Jimquisition, describe the graphics as forgettable or fine but lacking in standout elements, indicating a disparity in the visual impact across different aspects of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is divided, with a notable split between those who appreciate the game's artistic direction and visual fidelity and those who find it lacking in innovation and technical execution. While many praise the immersive environments and the effective use of the Northlight engine, others express disappointment over performance issues and a perceived lack of variety in design. Critics like GameSpot and IGN highlight the game's vibrant visuals and unique mission designs, yet there is a recurring theme of the visuals not quite living up to the legacy of Control or Alan Wake II. This mixed reception suggests that while FBC: Firebreak has commendable visual elements, it may not fully satisfy expectations set by its predecessors.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak's sound design and music receive mixed reviews. Some critics praise the energetic soundtrack and punchy sound effects that enhance gameplay, while others slam the audio as bland and forgettable, with criticisms focusing on flat music and lack of memorable themes. Overall, the reception highlights standout elements but is overshadowed by significant dissatisfaction with the overall audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions regarding the sound design and music of FBC: Firebreak present a mixed bag of sentiments, with several critics highlighting positive aspects. Gameliner notes the energetic soundtrack that enhances the gameplay, contributing to the overall audiovisual experience. Similarly, CGMagazine praises the intense guitar riffs that align with the game's punk-rock sensibilities, enhancing its atmosphere. Critics like Game8 and MeuPlayStation also commend the strong soundtrack and satisfying sound effects, indicating that the audio elements can significantly elevate the gaming experience. On PC, both GameGrin and GamingTrend appreciate the punchy sound effects, particularly during combat, which enhances the overall gameplay. The industrial-tinged glam rock soundtrack is also mentioned by Gaming Nexus as fitting the gritty atmosphere of the game, suggesting that there are indeed effective elements within the sound design. Conversely, a notable number of critics express disappointment with various aspects of the sound design. Generación Xbox describes the sound design as disappointing, with flat music and unremarkable effects that detract from the experience. TechRadar Gaming echoes this sentiment, labeling the sound design as bland and generic, while The Jimquisition criticizes it as dismal, particularly pointing out obnoxious voice clips. Vandal also shares a negative view, stating that the music is forgettable and environmental effects lack prominence during key moments. This criticism is further supported by Atomix, who acknowledges effective ambient music but notes a lack of memorable themes, indicating that while some elements work, others fall short. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the sound design and music of FBC: Firebreak is divided. While several reviewers highlight effective sound elements that enhance gameplay, such as those mentioned by Gameliner and GameGrin, a significant number express dissatisfaction with the overall execution, particularly in terms of memorability and impact. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Vandal emphasize the shortcomings in sound design, suggesting a lack of cohesion and distinctiveness in the audio experience. This dichotomy indicates that while there are standout features in the sound design, the overall reception is marred by a substantial critique of its effectiveness and memorability.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Voice acting in FBC: Firebreak gets mixed reviews. Some critics praise its humor and relatability, enhancing character engagement and atmosphere, while others slam it as flat and annoying, lacking depth. Notably, the absence of voice or text chat in a co-op game is seen as a major flaw. Overall, there's potential, but significant improvements are needed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

50%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in FBC: Firebreak has received a mix of positive feedback from several critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and character engagement. Gameliner praised the casual and relatable dialogue, which contributes to the humor and relatability of the characters, portraying them as ordinary volunteers. Similarly, Game8 noted that the voice acting is well-executed, giving characters enough personality to be endearing. Try Hard Guides also appreciated the humor and quippy dialogue, which adds a light-hearted tone to the otherwise serious setting. TheXboxHub pointed out that while the voice acting is minimal, it is effective in creating a cooperative atmosphere during team revives, suggesting that even limited dialogue can serve a purpose in enhancing gameplay. On the flip side, several critics expressed dissatisfaction with the voice acting, pointing out significant drawbacks that hinder the overall experience. TechRadar Gaming described the voice acting as unremarkable, with generic characters lacking depth or personality. The Jimquisition took a more critical stance, labeling the voice acting as "completely obnoxious," which negatively impacted their enjoyment of the game. Additionally, both Gfinity and DarkZero highlighted the absence of voice or text chat as a major oversight for a co-op game, further diminishing the potential for character interaction and communication among players. XboxEra echoed this sentiment, describing the voice lines as annoying, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in FBC: Firebreak is mixed, with a notable divide between appreciation for its humor and relatability and criticism for its lack of depth and variety. While some critics like Gameliner and Game8 found value in the light-hearted dialogue and character portrayal, others such as TechRadar Gaming and The Jimquisition felt that the voice acting fell flat, detracting from the immersive experience. The common concern about the absence of communication options in a co-op setting further emphasizes the need for improvement in this area. As it stands, the voice acting serves its purpose in some respects, but many critics agree that there is significant room for enhancement in future updates.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak's technical performance is a mixed bag. Xbox Series X delivers smooth 4K gameplay and stability, but suffers from glitches and disconnections. PS5 offers good performance and immersive DualSense features, yet struggles with matchmaking and frame rate drops. PC generally performs well but faces serious connectivity and desync issues. Critics agree—while the game has potential, it needs significant refinement for a consistently enjoyable experience across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of FBC: Firebreak has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms, with notable positives for each. On the Xbox Series X, critics like ElDesmarque and Gameliner praised the game for its smooth operation in 4K resolution and overall stability, highlighting a strong technical performance. Generación Xbox noted that the game maintains a solid 60 FPS with quick load times, contributing to a positive gameplay experience. On the PlayStation 5, Atomix and CGMagazine echoed similar sentiments, reporting smooth performance and the effective use of DualSense features, which enhances immersion. Critics on PC, including Checkpoint Gaming and Combo Infinito, commended the game for its solid performance, with no major bugs reported, indicating good optimization across various hardware setups. However, the negatives are also significant and vary across platforms. On Xbox Series X, GameMAG pointed out performance drops and glitches during large enemy encounters, while ZTGD highlighted frequent disconnections that can be particularly frustrating for an online-only title. On the PS5, several critics, including Daily Star and Digital Trends, reported matchmaking issues and connectivity problems, which detract from the overall experience. MeuPlayStation noted frame rate drops and visual bugs at higher difficulties, indicating optimization challenges. For PC, while many reviews praised the performance, critics like Gaming Nexus and Try Hard Guides flagged serious connectivity issues and significant desync problems that can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a polarized view of FBC: Firebreak's technical performance across platforms. While there are commendable aspects, particularly in terms of smooth gameplay and optimization on PC and next-gen consoles, significant technical issues persist, especially concerning online play and matchmaking. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Gfinity expressed concern over the game's stability and connection errors, indicating that while the game has potential, it still requires further refinement to deliver a consistently enjoyable experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics are split on FBC: Firebreak's replay value. While some praise its progression and cooperative gameplay as potential draws for players, the majority highlight issues like repetitive missions and uninspired content. Many reviews warn that the limited variety at launch could lead to player fatigue, making it hard to justify returning after the initial playthrough unless significant updates are made.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of FBC: Firebreak, it is evident that some reviewers found potential for enjoyment in the game. Critics like GameSpot and GameGrin highlighted the game's deep progression system and customizable character builds, suggesting that these elements could encourage players to return for new experiences. Additionally, MeuPlayStation and Stevivor noted that the variety of difficulty levels and job variations could enhance replayability, especially in cooperative play, making the game enjoyable for groups of friends. This sentiment is echoed by SECTOR.sk, who emphasized the significance of cooperative gameplay in ensuring multiple engaging sessions. However, the overwhelming consensus among critics leans towards a negative outlook on the game's replay value. Many reviewers, including The Jimquisition, GamesRadar+, and TechRadar Gaming, pointed out the repetitive nature of missions and the lack of engaging content as significant drawbacks. Critics like DBLTAP and PC Gamer expressed that the grind required to unlock content and the uninspired gameplay mechanics made it challenging to justify returning to the game after the initial experience. This sentiment is further reinforced by critics such as Pocket Tactics and Slant Magazine, who noted that the limited number of missions and the predictable gameplay loop hinder long-term engagement. Overall, the critics' consensus indicates a strong concern regarding the replay value of FBC: Firebreak. While some reviewers recognized potential in the game's cooperative elements and progression systems, the majority highlighted the repetitive mission structures and lack of variety as significant barriers to sustained interest. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Gfinity emphasized that the limited content available at launch could lead to player fatigue, suggesting that the game may not hold up well over time. Despite some positive notes on replayability, the prevailing opinion suggests that unless future updates significantly enhance content variety and engagement, many players may find little incentive to revisit the game after their initial playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding FBC: Firebreak is a complex tapestry of opinions, with several reviewers highlighting its potential and enjoyable aspects. Critics such as Shacknews and Stevivor praised the game for its unique cooperative gameplay and engaging mechanics, noting that it successfully integrates action with supernatural elements. MeuPlayStation and CGMagazine also found merit in the game's visuals and cooperative experience, suggesting that it offers a fun multiplayer diversion that could appeal to fans of the genre. The imaginative setting and chaotic gameplay were seen as strong points by several reviewers, including IGN Italia and GameSpot, who acknowledged the game’s ability to provide a unique narrative experience. However, the negatives heavily overshadow these positives, as a significant number of critics expressed disappointment with the game’s execution. Many reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and GameMAG, emphasized the lack of depth, content, and replay value, rendering it difficult to recommend. Critics like Combo Infinito and Slant Magazine pointed out that the game feels repetitive and fails to capture the charm of its predecessor, Control. The consensus among many reviewers is that while the core mechanics show promise, the game suffers from a lack of engaging content and variety, as noted by Gamepressure and DarkZero. This sentiment is echoed by critics who felt that the game did not live up to the expectations set by Remedy's previous titles. In summary, while FBC: Firebreak has been recognized for its cooperative gameplay and unique setting, the overwhelming consensus among critics is that it ultimately falls short due to significant content limitations and a lack of depth. The mixed reviews suggest that while there are enjoyable elements, the game is seen more as a starting point than a fully realized experience, as noted by Daily Star and GamingTrend. Many critics, including Vandal and Gfinity, believe that the game could benefit from future updates and additional content to enhance its longevity and appeal, leaving players hopeful but currently unsatisfied with the launch version.

TL;DR

FBC: Firebreak boasts unique cooperative gameplay and an imaginative setting, winning praise for its engaging mechanics and visuals. However, it suffers from significant content limitations, lack of depth, and repetitiveness, leading to disappointment among critics. Many see it as a promising starting point rather than a fully realized game, with hopes for future updates to improve its appeal. Overall, mixed reviews suggest a fun experience, but ultimately underwhelming compared to Remedy's previous titles.

MONSTER

Reviews

118 reviews found

SECTOR.sk

Jun 17, 2025