Jesse Faden arrives at the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) seeking answers about her past, only to find the Bureau in chaos after a hostile force known as the Hiss invades. The FBC is a secret government agency that investigates paranormal phenomena and reality-bending objects, with its headquarters, the “Oldest House,” being a constantly shifting, mysterious building. Jesse unexpectedly becomes the Bureau’s new Director and gains access to supernatural powers tied to artifacts known as Objects of Power. As she battles the Hiss, the Oldest House’s bizarre architecture bends space, changes reality, and creates alternate dimensions, forcing Jesse to adapt her newfound abilities to survive. Along her journey, she uncovers secrets about the Bureau’s past, her own mysterious connection to these events, and the true nature of the paranormal forces at play. Control blends mind-bending reality shifts with intense action, setting itself apart with a unique narrative structure and a deeply surreal atmosphere.
Control
Gravity Index: 7.3
Control offers a deeply atmospheric and mysterious journey into the nature of power, reality, and existential threats. The game balances psychological tension and high-concept themes, making it a profound experience with philosophical undertones, though it focuses more on emotional and narrative depth than on scientific exploration.
Tone: 8
Control presents a dark, mysterious, and serious tone throughout the narrative. The high-concept elements of reality manipulation and supernatural powers are treated with gravity, focusing on the psychological tension of the protagonist, Jesse, as she navigates the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC). The narrative explores deep, unsettling themes of identity, control, and existential threats from alternate dimensions, creating a tone that is both philosophical and eerie.
Consequence: 7
Consequences in Control are significant and far-reaching. The presence of the Hiss, an interdimensional threat, and Jesse’s powers have massive implications for the stability of the Bureau and reality itself. Each action can have lasting consequences on the environment, the characters, and the story, as Jesse uncovers hidden truths that reshape her understanding of the Bureau’s purpose and her role.
Depth: 7
Control delves into metaphysical concepts, including alternate dimensions, reality warping, and the nature of control over one’s fate. While it doesn’t focus on detailed scientific explanations, the game’s lore touches on theories of multiverses, consciousness, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. The exploration of these ideas adds philosophical weight, especially in how it deals with the unknown and incomprehensible forces at play.