The Verge's review of Control Resonant argues that reading optional in-game documents is integral to the experience. The reviewer initially skipped enemy logs but found they helped with combat and revealed a workplace romance between two FBC agents. This suggests that well-crafted optional content can turn a game from a simple action title into a richer narrative experience.
For game studios, this is a business consideration. Optional reading materials are low-cost to produce relative to full cutscenes, yet they can significantly deepen player engagement. The reviewer's determination to find the last enemy log to read a final note demonstrates how such content can extend playtime and foster emotional attachment to characters.
The review also notes that the game's combat balance was criticized and patched, but the reading experience remained a highlight. This indicates that narrative depth can be a differentiator even when other aspects face criticism. Studios looking to build long-term franchises might take note: investing in world-building through text can pay off in player loyalty and word-of-mouth.