Control: Base Game vs. Ultimate Edition – What’s the Real Difference?
The question of whether to purchase the base game of Control or the Ultimate Edition is a common one among players, particularly those interested in experiencing this critically acclaimed action-adventure title on next-generation consoles. The core difference boils down to content and accessibility: the Ultimate Edition isn’t just a bundle; it’s the definitive version designed to provide the full Control experience, optimized for current-gen systems, and with all expansions included. Simply put, the Ultimate Edition bundles the main game, both expansions (“The Foundation” and “AWE”), and free next-generation upgrades, while the base game needs further purchases for the same overall experience.
What Does the Ultimate Edition Offer?
Core Content
The most significant difference is that the Ultimate Edition includes the base game of Control along with all of its previously released downloadable content: The Foundation and AWE expansions. This means players who purchase the Ultimate Edition immediately gain access to the complete narrative and world-building experience crafted by Remedy Entertainment.
Next-Generation Enhancements
Another key differentiator is that the Ultimate Edition provides the pathway to experience Control on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S with next-generation features. These enhancements typically include:
- Improved visual fidelity: Featuring 4K graphics and ray-tracing, which greatly enhance the game’s atmospheric and often otherworldly setting.
- Performance Modes: Offering players the choice between a higher graphics fidelity or a smoother, 60fps performance.
- Xbox Series X|S Upgrade: The Ultimate edition includes a free upgrade to the next gen version of the game.
- Streamlined Access: All of the content is included within the single game disc.
Bundled Value
By consolidating the base game, all expansions, and the next-gen upgrades into a single package, the Ultimate Edition provides a much higher value proposition than acquiring the base game and additional content separately. This is especially true for new players or those wishing to revisit the game with enhanced visuals and performance on newer hardware.
What The Base Game Misses
- The Foundation and AWE Expansions: Players only get the main story and none of the extra content
- Free Next-Gen Upgrades: Players who have the base game on PS4 or Xbox One must buy the Ultimate Edition to play the PS5 or Xbox Series X|S versions, instead of getting a free upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity on the differences between Control base game and the Ultimate Edition:
1. Is Control and Control Ultimate Edition the same game?
While the core game mechanics and storyline are the same, Control Ultimate Edition is not the same as the base game. It includes the original base game, both expansions (The Foundation and AWE), and offers a free upgrade to the next-gen version for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
2. Is Control Ultimate Edition worth buying?
Yes, Control Ultimate Edition is absolutely worth buying, especially for new players or those seeking the definitive experience with all content and next-gen upgrades. The story, combat, and visual enhancements justify the purchase. It also is the only way to get the free next-gen upgrade.
3. Is Control Ultimate Edition a free upgrade for existing owners of Control?
No. The next-gen upgrade is only free for those who own Control Ultimate Edition. If you only own the base game, you will need to buy the Ultimate Edition to access the improved PS5 or Xbox Series X|S versions.
4. Does Control Ultimate Edition come with all outfits and cosmetics?
No, the Ultimate Edition only contains the base game and the two expansions. It does not include any pre-order costumes, crafting materials, themes, or PS4-exclusive suits that came bundled with the standard edition.
5. How long is Control Ultimate Edition?
Focusing only on the main objectives, Control Ultimate Edition is around 12.5 hours in length. For those who strive for 100% completion, the game can extend up to 39 hours of gameplay.
6. Does Control Ultimate Edition have all DLC?
Yes, Control Ultimate Edition includes all DLC. This includes the two story expansions, The Foundation and AWE, that extend the narrative and add new areas to explore.
7. Is Control a hard game?
Yes, Control is known for its challenging gameplay. It has a reputation for having difficulty spikes and sporadic save points, requiring players to be strategic in combat and patient throughout the game.
8. Is Control Ultimate Edition a horror game?
While Control has elements of horror, mystery, and sci-fi, it is more accurately categorized as an action-adventure game. The game’s atmosphere is unnerving, but it’s not a pure horror title.
9. What DLC is included in Control Ultimate Edition?
Control Ultimate Edition includes two significant DLC expansions: The Foundation and AWE. These expansions offer new missions, environments, and further depth to the game’s lore.
10. Does Control have a free Xbox Upgrade?
No, there isn’t a free upgrade for existing owners of the base game of Control on Xbox. The free next-gen upgrade is exclusive to the Ultimate Edition.
11. Do saves carry over to Control: Ultimate Edition?
Unfortunately, save files do not transfer from the previous generation to the next-generation versions. The engine differences between versions mean that starting a fresh playthrough on a new console is necessary.
12. What are the PS5 versions enhancements?
The PS5 version of Control Ultimate Edition offers improved visual fidelity with 4K graphics, ray-tracing, and a 60fps performance mode. These enhancements elevate the gaming experience to a whole new level.
13. How many missions are in Control Ultimate Edition?
Control Ultimate Edition contains a total of 46 missions, including the main game and expansions. This excludes one mission that was previously exclusive to the PS4 version.
14. Is the Ultimate Edition all on disc?
No, the Ultimate Edition is not all on disc. While some data is on disc, the remaining content is downloaded upon start up. This is because of the over 50 GB total size of all content.
15. How do I access the DLC content in Control Ultimate Edition?
The DLC expansions are automatically installed, but you need to complete the main storyline first. Once completed, the DLC missions can be started.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the base game of Control provides a compelling story and gameplay experience, the Ultimate Edition delivers the definitive version of the game. It includes all the expansions, offers a free next-gen upgrade to improve visuals and performance, and streamlines the whole experience into a single package. For both new players and veterans looking to experience Control at its best, the Ultimate Edition is undoubtedly the superior choice.