The Atlas is a large structure created by the Oldest House itself, located within the Maintenance sector.

It resembles a giant sculpture composed of concrete blocks of varying shapes and sizes, linked together by brass bars. Some of the outward block faces feature what appear to be collages of images and notes, with each collection linked to others by red cords.

While the specific shapes and dimensions of the Atlas seem to indicate a more explicit purpose, its current function is unknown.^[1] It is known to change form but has resisted attempts by FBC researchers to observe the process, even so far as to change between frames on security cameras. Some have theorized that it may be a map of the Oldest House itself, but its changes do not occur at the same time as Building Shifts, casting doubt on the theory.

Trivia

• Careful examination of the collages reveals that many of the images seem to hint at Control's game development.
  • It's very likely to be a nod towards Remedy's theory-board process when developing games.
• Per Stuart Macdonald (World Design Director), the design of the Atlas was inspired by 3-D casts of termite colonies.^[2] The Atlas itself is a failed attempt by the Rangers to map the Oldest House; the strings represent the non-spatial connections between subdivisions.^[3]

Gallery

Concept art by Markus Luotero.

Sign mounted to the base of the Atlas.

Collage and cords detail.

From The Art and Making of Control.

References