Remedy Entertainment’s Control is a visually stunning, mind-bending action-adventure game packed with supernatural abilities, layered storytelling, and intense combat. Whether you’re just entering the mysterious Oldest House or looking to sharpen your strategy, these 15 essential tips will help you get the most out of Jesse’s journey.
1. Explore Thoroughly for Story Insights
Control’s narrative is rich and fragmented. Much of the lore isn’t handed to you—it’s hidden in documents, audio logs, and videos scattered throughout the environment. Thorough exploration not only enhances the story but also rewards you with mods, resources, and hidden secrets.
2. Don’t Ignore Side Quests
While you can finish the game by focusing on the main story, many of Jesse’s most powerful abilities are unlocked through side missions—especially those involving Objects of Power. These optional quests are often where Controlshines brightest in both creativity and combat design.
3. Use the Seize Ability in Combat
The Seize ability allows you to control weakened enemies and turn them into allies. It’s incredibly helpful in large fights or boss encounters, creating distractions and adding extra firepower. Just remember—Seize takes time to cast, so find cover while using it.
4. Complete Board Countermeasures
At Control Points (which double as fast travel and save stations), you’ll find Board Countermeasures—optional challenges like defeating certain enemies or using specific weapon forms. These reward valuable materials and encourage varied playstyles. Always have a few active.
5. Unlock Weapon Forms Before Upgrading Them
The Service Weapon can shift into multiple forms—each suited for different combat styles. Before you upgrade any one form, unlock several and test them out. Once you’ve found your preferred combination, then invest resources into upgrades.
6. Choose the Right Weapon Combo
Each form has its role:
- Grip – Standard pistol, good all-rounder.
- Shatter – Shotgun-style, great for close range.
- Pierce – Charged sniper shot; high damage at range.
- Charge – Fires explosive projectiles, ideal for heavy enemies.
- Spin – High-rate-of-fire but situational and generally less effective.
Focus upgrades on the ones that fit your playstyle best.
7. Upgrade Jesse’s Health First
While your Energy is important for using abilities, upgrading Health early will help you survive the chaotic combat. In the early hours, enemies deal consistent damage, and survivability matters more than spamming powers.
8. Equip Health Mods
Personal Mods that increase max health or boost health recovery from Element Pickups are invaluable. Equip multiple health mods if possible, especially before boss encounters or side quests with heavy enemy waves.
9. Don’t Waste Resources Crafting Mods
Mod crafting is rarely worth it. You’ll find plenty of high-tier mods from exploration and combat. Save your materials for weapon upgrades and ability unlocks instead.
10. Regularly Discard Lower-Tier Mods
Your inventory space for mods is limited. Discard duplicates and low-tier mods regularly—this not only frees up room but also provides crafting materials you can actually use.
11. Don’t Underestimate Melee
Jesse’s melee attack, especially once upgraded, becomes a powerful tool in close quarters. It knocks enemies back, breaks shields, and even staggers tougher enemies. After health and energy, invest ability points into melee for added versatility.
12. Stay Mobile During Combat
There’s no traditional cover system in Control, and standing still is a quick way to get overwhelmed. Use Evade to dash out of harm’s way and reposition constantly. Mobility is survival.
13. Learn Enemy Types and Weaknesses
Each enemy has a counter:
- Shielded enemies – Use Launch to break shields.
- Flying enemies – Require precision and long-range attacks.
- Exploding enemies – Stay alert and keep your distance.
Understanding what you’re up against helps you react faster and more effectively.
14. Prioritize Hiss Clusters
Floating red orbs called Hiss Clusters heal nearby enemies and are often hidden behind walls or ceilings. Always scan the battlefield for them—destroying them early can turn the tide of difficult encounters.
15. Clear Hiss Barriers by Destroying Red Blocks
You’ll encounter red mist blocking doors or hallways. These are tied to Hiss Blocks nearby—small red cubes usually embedded in the environment. Destroy all of them in the room to clear the barrier and progress.
Final Thoughts
Control is a cerebral and cinematic experience built on exploration, psychic powers, and surreal storytelling. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the twisting halls of the Oldest House, upgrade Jesse effectively, and face the Hiss with confidence.
Take your time, embrace the weird, and enjoy one of the most unique action-adventure games of the last decade.
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