- Primary Subject: Control Resonant
- Key Update: Remedy Entertainment revealed story details for Control Resonant on the PlayStation Blog, convincing a complete newcomer to play the original Control before diving into Dylan Faden's standalone sequel.
- Status: Confirmed / Opinion
- Last Verified: September 16, 2026
- Quick Answer: While Control Resonant is designed as an accessible standalone sequel featuring Dylan Faden, playing the original Control helps players fully appreciate its deep lore.
I'll admit, I have never played Control. Yet here I am, seriously interested and intrigued by its sequel, Control Resonant.
Usually, I'm quite hesitant to jump into a sequel or spin-off game having skipped its predecessor, especially if the previous installment is extremely lore-heavy. It puts immense pressure on me, and I end up not playing altogether. Catching up on years of established lore feels like homework, which completely takes the joy out of diving into a new title.
However, PlayStation recently shared a blog detailing the game's story, and it's got me hooked. Although I've never played Control, I'm thinking of playing Resonant - even if that means playing the first game to get up to speed.
I Want to Play Resonant Despite Skipping Control
You might be wondering, how could someone who has never played Control want to play Resonant? Well, the thing that really piqued my interest is the psychological concept of "The Gap."
The idea of exploring Dylan's mind - one he can access at will - is the kind of dark sci-fi I love. The thought of a world being a psychological puzzle box was enough to get me intrigued, to say the least. It promises a narrative where reality and perception blur, forcing players to navigate unique environments that reflect Dylan's inner struggle as well as external threats.
I'm a story-first gamer; that's why I was immediately sucked in when I saw the gameplay mechanics that are tied directly into character lore. Remedy Entertainment has revealed that Dylan's paranatural capabilities are framed around his mental state, which makes his connection to the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) feel purposeful. Rather than just giving you abilities that make the game look flashy, every ability feels tied to Dylan's trauma and growth. This makes me want to give the game a shot even more.
It's a shame that I don't have the background knowledge of Control, but I can still appreciate the fact that Dylan wields mind-bending powers. It's a story I think I can get lost in, which has me considering whether I should bite the bullet and play Control first.
-1.webp?width=700)
Starting with Control and experiencing Jesse Faden's original journey through the Oldest House might take some time, but I think it would shed some light on what Dylan's going through in Resonant. It feels like an investment worth making.
I'm aware that die-hard fans can probably appreciate the narrative of Resonant more. They'll recognize the easter eggs, the possible returning characters, and might even have an upper hand in combat.
READ MORE: Control Resonant Delivers First Details on New Game Plus for Returning Players
But from a newbie's perspective, Dylan's paranatural powers, The Gap, and the tight narrative focus are enough to compel me to play. After all, you don't always need to know every single piece of history to appreciate a great premise when it's executed this well.
The world of Resonant is extremely fascinating, even to someone unaware of the previous tales. It makes me want to step inside.
For more like this, stick with us here at Gfinityesports.com, the best website for gaming news, reviews, features, and guides.