The announcement that Remedy Entertainment’s upcoming title, Control 2, will be categorized as an “action RPG” has sparked a fascinating discourse within the gaming community. While the first Control was primarily recognized as a third-person shooter, it undeniably incorporated RPG elements such as character progression, unlockable abilities, and various boosts. This begs the question: is the distinction between action games and action RPGs becoming increasingly blurred? In an era where leveling-up mechanics permeate numerous genres, declaring a game as an action RPG might not carry the weight it once did.
Today’s gaming landscape sees a fusion of genres, with elements typically associated with RPGs being integrated into a wide variety of action titles. For instance, upgrades and progression systems have become almost ubiquitous, manifesting in everything from platformers to first-person shooters. While some developers might argue that their games maintain pure action roots, it is challenging to find an action-oriented title devoid of character development features. The truth is, many gamers have come to expect depth and longevity—hallmarks of the RPG genre—in all their gaming experiences, making labels increasingly superficial.
The recent investor presentation by Remedy provided a glimpse into not only Control 2 but also the studio’s broader ambitions. Among other revelations, it was noted that Control would be receiving a free update next year, potentially reigniting interest in the original game. Gamers are left pondering if any significant content, like DLC packs, might find its way into their hands without a price tag—a hopeful yet improbable wish. Additionally, the impressive sales figure of 1.8 million units for Alan Wake 2 reflects the studio’s successful track record, which fans hope will carry over into Control 2.
Within the context of gaming journalism, the reaction to these updates has been mixed. Enthusiasm is often accompanied by skepticism regarding the depth and relevance of the information shared. Industry insiders find themselves weighing the merits of lengthy investor presentations, knowing full well they could end up with little more than corporate jargon about return on investment without any substantial insights to report on. This constant tug-of-war between the lure of inside information and the potential waste of time generates a unique kind of pressure on journalists navigating the gaming news landscape.
As the genre evolves, the emphasis that Remedy places on labeling Control 2 as an action RPG may signal a shift in design philosophy. By highlighting these attributes, the developers could be aiming to attract a broader audience while also setting specific expectations regarding gameplay dynamics. This opens up an intriguing dialogue about how players define their experiences and what elements they find most engaging. With gaming continually charting new territory, it becomes essential for both developers and players to adapt and embrace the fluidity of genre labels. In the end, the focus may need to shift more towards the experience itself rather than the constraints of traditional classifications.