Beginner's Guide to Control

New to the Oldest House? This guide covers combat, exploration, and ability progression.

Combat Basics

  • 1Control has no cover system -- stay mobile and use abilities aggressively.
  • 2Health drops from defeated enemies. The best defense is relentless offense.
  • 3Launch is your most powerful ability -- prioritize upgrading it early.
  • 4The Service Weapon has infinite ammo but needs time to recharge between magazines.
  • 5Alternate between shooting and using abilities to maximize damage output.

Exploration Tips

  • 1The Oldest House is interconnected -- unlock shortcuts and fast travel points.
  • 2Clearance levels gate access to areas. Complete main missions to increase your level.
  • 3Hidden rooms often contain ability points and rare weapon mods.
  • 4Check the map frequently -- it reveals unexplored rooms and objectives.
  • 5Destructible walls hide many secrets. Try launching objects at suspicious surfaces.

Weapon & Mod System

  • 1Equip two weapon forms at once and switch between them mid-combat.
  • 2Weapon mods drop from enemies and chests. Higher-tier mods have stronger effects.
  • 3Personal mods affect Jesse directly -- health, energy, and ability cooldowns.
  • 4Dismantle unwanted mods for source material used in crafting better ones.
  • 5Pierce and Charge forms are unlocked later but are extremely powerful.

Ability Progression

  • 1Ability Points are found at hidden locations and awarded for completing side missions.
  • 2Invest in Launch damage and energy recovery first for the strongest early game.
  • 3Levitate opens up vertical exploration -- unlock it as soon as the story allows.
  • 4Shield is essential for survival in later areas with heavy ranged enemies.
  • 5Seize is situational but incredibly useful for creating distractions in tough fights.