Control Ultimate Edition is a third-person action-adventure game that thrusts you into a supernatural world of mystery and chaos. As Jesse Faden, you step into the role of the new Director of the Federal Bureau of Control, battling a corrupting force known as the Hiss that has overrun the agency's headquarters. This version bundles the base game with two expansions, The Foundation and AWE, all optimized for Xbox Series X|S with 4K visuals and a 60fps performance mode. The experience revolves around exploration, combat, and unraveling a bizarre narrative filled with unexpected twists.
Gameplay
In Control Ultimate Edition, the core loop centers on navigating the ever-shifting architecture of the Oldest House, the Federal Bureau of Control's headquarters. You use a mix of telekinetic abilities and a shape-shifting service weapon to fight enemies. Mechanics include launching objects from the environment at foes, dodging attacks with a dash ability, and upgrading your powers through a skill tree. Combat feels fluid and destructive, as you rip apart surroundings to create improvised weapons or shields. Exploration plays a key role, with side missions that reveal hidden areas and collectibles tied to the lore. Boss fights demand strategic use of abilities, while the environment itself changes, opening new paths as you progress.
The game emphasizes adaptability, with your weapon transforming into forms like a pistol, shotgun, or machine gun. Telekinesis lets you hurl debris or even enemies, adding layers to encounters. Upgrades come from completing missions and defeating bosses, allowing customization of your loadout. The supernatural elements integrate seamlessly, making every fight a test of quick thinking and resource management.
Game Modes
Control Ultimate Edition focuses on a single-player campaign that spans the main story and its expansions. The primary mode follows Jesse's journey through the Bureau, blending linear progression with open exploration. The Foundation expansion adds new areas beneath the Oldest House, introducing mechanics like crystal manipulation for puzzles and combat. AWE brings crossover elements with altered items and new enemy types, extending the narrative into darker territories.
There are no multiplayer components; instead, the game offers replayability through New Game Plus, where you carry over abilities to tackle challenges again. Side content includes Bureau Alerts, timed events with unique rewards, and optional boss fights that test mastered skills.
Story and World
The narrative unfolds in a secretive government agency dealing with paranormal phenomena. As Jesse searches for her missing brother, she uncovers layers of bureaucracy twisted by otherworldly forces. The Hiss serves as the main antagonistic force, possessing agents and altering reality. Environments shift unpredictably, with areas like the Astral Plane providing surreal backdrops for key moments.
Characters bring depth, from skeptical board members to enigmatic entities. Collectibles such as case files and audio logs flesh out the backstory, rewarding thorough exploration. The expansions tie into broader Remedy Entertainment lore, connecting to other titles without requiring prior knowledge.
Is It Worth Playing?
Control Ultimate Edition holds up well for those drawn to narrative-driven action with a supernatural edge. Player reception remains strong, with 88% positive reviews from over 24,000 users on platforms like Steam, praising the combat and atmosphere. The game has earned over 80 awards since its release, highlighting its visual and storytelling strengths.
If you enjoy third-person shooters mixed with exploration and puzzle elements, this title delivers a satisfying experience, especially on Xbox Series X|S with its enhanced graphics. Current support includes the complete package with all content, making it accessible without ongoing seasons or updates. For fans of intense, story-focused adventures, it stands out as a solid choice, though those seeking multiplayer might look elsewhere.
