Control Resonant review (PS5): melee sequel scores 7

A recent review based on extended play on PS5 reports that Control Resonant shifts the franchise from ranged combat to a melee-focused system and casts players as Jesse’s brother. The reviewer notes Remedy Entertainment kept the series’ surreal tone and striking visuals while changing core gameplay.

The review identifies combat as the title’s weakest element. The parry mechanic is optional and dodge is the main defensive tool. The reviewer reports a lack of combo strings and few meaningful ways to combine powers with weapon attacks. Encounters often require wearing down high-hitpoint enemies described as “sponge-like,” which makes fights feel long and repetitive rather than varied.

On level design, the review says Resonant replaces the tighter Metroidvania-style layout of the original with an open-world New York City. The environment is described as dated and frequently empty, with repeated tasks such as reactivating map beacons when entering new areas. Major objectives often require mobility upgrades to reach, which the review says funnels progression despite an appearance of open-ended missions.

The review highlights technical and artistic positives. Trippy, visually ambitious story sequences and several well-crafted boss fights receive praise. The reviewer points to moments like a cursed bus encounter as examples of striking set pieces and notes the game’s overall art direction as a consistent strength.

The review’s concluding line reads: “Control Resonant isn’t a bad game, but it’s not the Control successor that people were left wanting after the original.” The title received a numeric score of 7 out of 10 in the review.

Background context in the review notes that the original game drew acclaim for its supernatural ranged combat and compact world design. Control Resonant’s change to melee combat and a more open layout represents a distinct shift in design approach for the series.