Control Resonant shows that sometimes bigger really is better

How do you approach a sequel? Do you refine the predecessor’s mechanics and stick with the main character? Well, Control Resonant chucks those out the window.

Review info Platform reviewed: Xbox Series X Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC Release date: September 24, 2026 Instead of an open-zone map like the first game, Resonant goes full open-world.

You play as Dylan Faden, old protagonist Jesse’s brother, who was (mostly) freed from the Hiss’s evil influence towards the end of the last adventure.

Now, Jesse has disappeared somewhere in an otherworldly Manhattan, and it’s his job to find her.

Like brother, like sister (Image credit: Remedy) Control Resonant ’s story is markedly improved over its predecessor.

The sibling bond between Dylan and Jesse provides an emotional anchor to latch onto.

Learning about their childhoods through the main missions was engaging enough and made it much easier to follow this time around.

It kept my attention in ways that Control didn’t.

The small cast of support characters also smartly keeps the character development focused mainly on Dylan.

Zoe De Vera is assigned as Dylan’s handler, and I like how their relationship starts off rocky with her viewing him as just a tool to fight the Hiss.

But as the story progresses, Zoe starts considering Dylan as more than that, asking him personal questions about his favorite music.

Emily Pope returns from the first game and acts as an important linchpin for Dylan to discuss Jesse.

As Emily helped Jesse throughout the entirety of Control , Dylan can confide in Emily, giving him hope he’ll eventually find his sister.

These powerful relationships make Resonant a less lonely trip.