Control Resonant will offer a two-day early access period exclusively on PS5 for buyers of the Digital Deluxe Edition, sparking frustration among fans. Remedy Entertainment announced yesterday that the sequel to one of its most beloved games will launch on September 24, but the celebration was marred by news that early access is tied to a PlayStation marketing agreement, leaving Xbox and PC players out. Some fans have declared they will skip pre-ordering or wait for a sale. "Great, now I know what September game to skip until holiday sales," one fan commented. Another said, "Platform-exclusive content is one thing. Platform-exclusive 'early access' while selling the same Deluxe Edition on every platform is another." Early access has long been a divisive practice, seen as a way to cash in on FOMO, and now it's crossing into platform exclusivity. Control Resonant launches the same day as Silent Hill: Townfall, creating competition. One fan noted, "Shame, Silent Hill: Townfall suddenly looks like a much nicer purchase on September 24." September is crowded with major releases, as publishers try to avoid GTA 6's eventual launch. Remedy's new CEO, Jean-Charles Gauchdeon, recently said Alan Wake 2 and Control should have sold better, and is seeking ways to expand audiences. Whether platform-exclusive early access helps remains uncertain.
