Control Resonant Review: Why Remedy’s Latest Is a Masterclass in Sequel Design

Seven years after the original Control introduced players to the enigmatic Federal Bureau of Control (FBC), Remedy Entertainment has returned with a sequel that manages the rare feat of surpassing its predecessor in almost every way. Control Resonant, released on September 24, 2026, shifts the action from the claustrophobic corridors of the Oldest House to a warped, Hiss-infested version of Manhattan, delivering an experience that is as ambitious as it is polished.

A Shift in Perspective

While the original game centered on Jesse Faden, Control Resonant places players in control of her brother, Dylan. This change is more than just cosmetic; it provides a fresh narrative lens. The storytelling in Resonant is significantly more refined, moving away from the often nebulous exposition of the first game to provide a character-driven journey defined by intimacy and intensity. Dylan’s quest for redemption is heart-wrenching, and his relationships with returning and new characters, such as the compelling newcomer Zoe, breathe life into the lore.

Manhattan Unbound

Technically and artistically, the game is a marvel. By opening the world to a semi-open Manhattan, the developers have introduced a sense of verticality and scale that the original lacked. Players can now leap across rooftops and navigate multidimensional urban environments, all while maintaining the signature surreal aesthetic that Remedy is known for. The technical improvements are also immediately apparent—the game boasts improved facial animations, a stable frame rate, and a complete lack of the lip-sync issues that plagued the 2019 title.

Refined Gameplay and Combat

Combat in Control Resonant receives a major overhaul, introducing a new melee-focused weapon called the Aberration. Drawing inspiration from fast-paced action titles like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, the combat loop is deeper and more rewarding. Players can customize their loadouts with various primary and secondary forms, alongside six special abilities. While the endgame suffers from minor pacing issues due to a reliance on 'damage sponge' enemies, the sheer variety of playstyles and the thrill of boss battles make it a standout action-RPG.

The DualSense Factor

For PlayStation 5 players, the experience is elevated by an exceptional use of the DualSense controller. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers create a tactile connection to the game's supernatural events, grounding the player in the chaotic world of the FBC more effectively than ever before. Despite its heavy reliance on world-building through collectible documents, Control Resonant stands tall as an essential title for 2026.