Remedy's Strategy to Avoid Concord's Online Shooter Pitfalls
In the competitive world of online multiplayer shooters, launching a paid game in 2025 might seem like a gamble. Remedy Entertainment, known for hits like Alan Wake and Max Payne, is taking on this challenge with their first multiplayer game, FBC Firebreak. Unlike its predecessors, Concord and XDefiant, which struggled to find success, Remedy has a solid plan to ensure Firebreak stands out in a crowded market filled with popular free-to-play giants like Fortnite and Call of Duty Warzone.
Introducing FBC Firebreak
Announced in October 2024, FBC Firebreak is a co-op first-person shooter set in the universe of Control. Remedy is making its online multiplayer debut with this game, and they are determined to make it a hit. Despite the game's appeal, Remedy knows that looking cool isn't enough to guarantee success.
Making Firebreak Accessible
To attract a large player base from the start, Remedy is focusing on accessibility. According to Thomas Puha, Remedy's communications director, the game will launch on Game Pass and PS Plus. This strategic move ensures that millions of subscribers can easily access the game, lowering the barrier to entry.
Additionally, financial backing and marketing support from these platforms are crucial, especially since Remedy is self-publishing Firebreak across all platforms.
Expanding the Player Base
To prevent Firebreak from fading quickly, like some other shooters, Remedy plans to release it on both Steam and Epic Games Store. This is a departure from their previous exclusivity with Epic and will provide a larger pool of potential players.
- Launching on both Game Pass and PS Plus
- Available on Steam and Epic Games Store
- Mid-priced game, not a full $60 or $70
- Full cross-platform matchmaking
- Reasonable minimum specs on PC
Technical Considerations
Remedy is also focused on ensuring smooth gameplay. Unlike Alan Wake 2, which had performance issues, Firebreak aims for reasonable minimum specs on PC. This approach helps avoid alienating players with less powerful systems.
Looking Ahead
While success isn't guaranteed, Remedy's thoughtful approach to FBC Firebreak's launch shows their awareness of the market's challenges. They understand that even great games can struggle, and they're doing everything possible to avoid becoming the next big multiplayer flop.
FBC Firebreak is set to launch in 2025 on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Stay tuned for more updates and join Streamers Visuals to stay updated on game news and explore designs like emotes, sub badges, and overlays.
