Control Resonant Promises a Lengthier Experience Than Its Predecessor

Remedy Entertainment is shaking things up with Control Resonant, the follow-up to 2019’s Control. This sequel introduces a fresh setting, a new protagonist, and an overhauled combat system, among other significant changes. One of the most notable differences is the playtime, with Resonant expected to take much longer to finish compared to its predecessor.

Lead gameplay designer Sergey Mohov shared that the “core experience” of Resonant will take around 30 hours to complete. In contrast, the main story of Control can be wrapped up in about 12 hours. According to HowLongToBeat.com, even a completionist run of Control averages under 30 hours. Mohov estimates that a completionist playthrough of Resonant will clock in at around 50 hours, highlighting just how much larger this sequel is.

A key factor contributing to the extended playtime is the setting of each game. Control is set entirely within the confines of the Oldest House, which, while expansive, features relatively small, contained areas. Resonant, on the other hand, takes players to the streets of New York City, offering a much broader scale and more opportunities for exploration. Although it’s not a fully open-world game, Remedy has designed Resonant’s map with open-ended zones that promote player freedom in tackling objectives. This structure likely means there will be plenty of optional content to discover beyond the main storyline.

Even with the larger world of Resonant, it seems that a more extensive narrative will be necessary to fill those 30 hours. Remedy has proven its ability to craft lengthy, engaging stories. For instance, 2023’s Alan Wake 2 takes about 20 hours to complete, despite being a fairly linear experience. Despite the many changes in Resonant, it still feels like a faithful continuation of the original Control, at least based on our preview of the action RPG.

Control Resonant is set to launch on September 24 for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.

Remedy is going all out with this mind-bending sequel.