Control Resonant will have a two-day early access period exclusive to PS5, sparking frustration among fans. Remedy Entertainment announced yesterday that the sequel to one of their most beloved games will launch on September 24. This should have been a celebration, but it's been overshadowed by news that the digital deluxe edition grants 48-hour early access, but only on PS5. Xbox and PC players get no early access, as it's tied to PlayStation's marketing deal. Some fans are refusing to pre-order or will wait for sales, saying they don't want to support such practices. One fan remarked, "Great, now I know what September game to skip until holiday sales." Another said, "Platform-exclusive content is one thing. Platform-exclusive 'early access' while selling the same Deluxe Edition on every platform is another. My money will go elsewhere." Early access has been controversial, essentially charging more for the actual release date. It's an easy way to cash in on FOMO, but now it's crossing into platform exclusivity. Control Resonant launches the same day as Silent Hill: Townfall, creating competition. One fan said they'd skip Control for Silent Hill, calling it "a much nicer purchase." September is crowded with major titles, as publishers aim to release before GTA 6 dominates. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 arrives in October, one of the few games that can compete near GTA 6. Players will be selective with their money, forcing publishers to fight for attention. Recently, Remedy's new CEO, Jean-Charles Gaudechon, said Alan Wake 2 and Control should have sold better and is seeking ways to expand their audiences. Whether controversial platform-exclusive early access helps remains to be seen.
