As the gaming world anticipates the release of FBC: Firebreak on June 17, the excitement is palpable. This latest offering from Remedy Entertainment is set to launch on the PlayStation 5 and will be featured as part of the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog. We had the opportunity to delve into the development and creative process behind this highly anticipated first-person shooter through conversations with key figures from the development team. These insights come from Communications Director Thomas Puha, Lead Level Designer Teemu Huhtiniemi, Lead Designer and Lead Technical Designer Anssi Hyytiainen, and Game Director and Lead Writer Mike Kayatta.
### PlayStation 5 Features
The development team has harnessed the capabilities of the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro to enhance the gaming experience. According to Thomas Puha, they have integrated 3D Audio to provide an immersive audio experience, and they are committed to achieving a frame rate of 60 frames per second (FPS) on both versions of the console. The game will utilize FSR2 technology to deliver an output resolution of 2560 x 1440 (1440p) on the standard PS5, while the PS5 Pro will support PSSR with an impressive 3840 x 2160 (4K) resolution.
The DualSense wireless controller, a standout feature of the PlayStation 5, will also play a significant role in the gaming experience. Although still a work in progress, the team is focused on utilizing haptic feedback to enhance gameplay. This feature is designed to make each weapon feel distinct from the others by leveraging the controller’s adaptive triggers, a technique previously employed in Remedy’s titles like Control and Alan Wake 2.
### Creative Inspirations
When it comes to the creative inspiration behind FBC: Firebreak, the development team drew from a variety of sources beyond their previous work on Control. Mike Kayatta shared that they looked at television shows that involved crisis management with a range of tools. One such inspiration was the reality show Dirty Jobs, where host Mike Rowe tackles challenging and often dangerous tasks that many people are unaware of, such as cleaning the interior of a water tower.
Additionally, the team found inspiration in the game PowerWash Simulator. The meditative and fulfilling nature of cleaning in the game sparked the idea of introducing unexpected elements, like a zombie attack, to disrupt the Zen-like state and add excitement. This concept of balancing tranquility and chaos became a central theme in the development of FBC: Firebreak.
### Challenges of Developing a Multiplayer Game
FBC: Firebreak marks Remedy Entertainment’s first foray into multiplayer gaming, and with it came unique challenges. Anssi Hyytiainen explained that the workflow for a multiplayer game is radically different from that of a single-player experience. Testing the game requires multiple players, and the team encountered instances where one player might miss something on their screen that others could see. This led to some humorous moments, such as players asking, “What are you shooting at?”
### Memorable Development Moments
The development journey of FBC: Firebreak has been filled with memorable moments for the team. Teemu Huhtiniemi recalled the excitement of witnessing the various systems in the game finally come together. There is often a long period in development where ideas exist only on paper or in prototypes. However, when these systems begin to interact and create engaging gameplay, it is a rewarding experience.
Mike Kayatta shared that there was initial skepticism, both internally and externally, about Remedy’s ability to create something so different from their previous work. However, when the trailer was released, the positive response from the public was invigorating. It validated their efforts and motivated the team to continue refining the game.
### Guiding Ideals
Throughout the development process, the team adhered to specific ideals that set FBC: Firebreak apart from other multiplayer shooters. Mike Kayatta explained that they constantly questioned what could make their game unique and distinctively Remedy. They wanted to create an experience that could only happen in the universe of Control or at Remedy Entertainment. The challenge was to stand out in a market filled with countless co-op multiplayer shooters.
Teemu Huhtiniemi emphasized the importance of embracing chaos. The team recognized that the game’s chaotic nature was integral to its appeal. Initially, they experimented with a prototype where only two Hiss enemies appeared in a level, but it lacked excitement. Eventually, they embraced the chaos, drawing inspiration from games like Overcooked, which thrive on frenetic and unpredictable gameplay.
### Naming the Game
Choosing the right name for the game was a crucial aspect of its development. Mike Kayatta explained that Firebreak was inspired by real-world firebreaks, which are areas cleared to prevent the spread of fires. In the game, firebreaks also serve as topographical features of the Oldest House. The term “Firebreak” symbolizes first responders who prevent disasters from escalating.
The “FBC” in the title stands for the Federal Bureau of Control, a nod to the game’s connection to the Control universe. However, the team was careful not to include “Control” in the title explicitly, as they wanted to avoid making it feel like a detour from Control 2 for players. The balance between maintaining a connection to Control and establishing FBC: Firebreak as its own entity was essential.
An amusing anecdote from the naming process involved an external partner who suggested the name “Housekeepers,” highlighting the game’s setting in the Oldest House. While the intention was understood, the team ultimately decided against it, as the name implied a different kind of role, akin to playing as a maid.
FBC: Firebreak is set to debut on June 17 as a PlayStation Plus Game Catalog title for the PS5. As the release date approaches, players can look forward to an innovative and chaotic multiplayer experience that showcases Remedy Entertainment’s unique creative vision.
For more insights and updates on FBC: Firebreak, you can visit the official PlayStation Blog.
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