Alan Wake 2 Elevates a Classic Splinter Cell Conviction Feature to New Heights

Article Key Points

Alan Wake 2 pushes the boundaries of modern survival horror by introducing unique concepts like time loops and interweaving stories.

The game's gameplay is heavily influenced by recent Resident Evil remakes, while its story takes inspiration from Twin Peaks and other supernatural dramas. Alan Wake 2 incorporates a feature from Splinter Cell Conviction, where objectives are projected onto the environment, and enhances it with disturbing live-action projections in its own gameplay.

Alan Wake 2 strives to redefine the boundaries of modern survival horror gaming with its innovative approach. Unlike typical action-thrillers or over-reliance on its Resident Evil-inspired combat, Alan Wake 2 takes unique steps to introduce various concepts and themes. These include intriguing elements like time loops, multiple protagonists with interconnected yet distinct narratives, and a refreshing twist on traditional horror tropes such as cult murders.

Although Alan Wake 2 stands on its own with its original ideas, it is not devoid of external influences. As previously mentioned, the gameplay of Alan Wake 2 clearly shows inspiration from recent Resident Evil remakes. Additionally, the story of Alan Wake 2 draws inspiration from acclaimed supernatural dramas like Twin Peaks. However, there is one unexpected source of inspiration that unintentionally shines through in Alan Wake 2, and that is the game Splinter Cell Conviction. Alan Wake 2 takes one particular feature from Splinter Cell Conviction and elevates it to new heights.

Alan Wake 2 Elevates an Old Splinter Cell Conviction Feature

Splinter Cell Conviction's Projected Objectives and Cutscenes Were Ahead of Their Time

Released in 2010, Splinter Cell Conviction is a controversial installment in the franchise's history. Departing from its stealth roots, the game took a more action-oriented approach, which divided the series' fanbase. However, this shift attracted a wider audience. One of the standout features of Splinter Cell Conviction was its innovative way of presenting the player's objectives. When embarking on a mission or receiving a new objective, descriptive text would appear on the environment's textures, creating a unique immersive experience. This decision not only added style to the game's presentation but also reinforced the emphasis on Sam Fisher's isolation by reminding players that he no longer had his team's support.

How Alan Wake 2 Takes This Splinter Cell Feature to the Next Level

Alan Wake 2 skillfully incorporates the innovative Splinter Cell Conviction feature, taking it to new heights. While Alan Wake 2's objectives aren't simply projected onto a wall, the essence of this Conviction feature permeates a significant portion of the gameplay. The most compelling manifestation of this can be experienced when controlling Alan Wake in the Dark Place. Within this realm, as Alan is introduced to a fresh Plot Idea for his story, the characters vividly come to life before him. However, they do so in a strikingly Conviction-like manner, with their silhouettes seamlessly transitioning between the foreground and background of the frame, effortlessly alternating between appearing in front and behind the player-character.

These silhouettes typically portray the character's body from a distant perspective or, alternatively, their head and shoulders in close proximity to the frame. Moreover, they frequently incorporate elements of live-action. These fleeting projections consistently evoke a sense of unease, even when featuring characters like Alex Casey - a protagonist brought to life through James McCaffrey's remarkable and self-aware performance. The presence of a live-action shadow moving effortlessly across the screen tends to intensify the dream-like ambiance of the surroundings, skillfully enhancing the overall atmosphere. This effect is further amplified by the inclusion of Saga's visions in the Overlap, blending both realities before the player's eyes.

Alan Wake 2

Alan Wake 2 is set to be released in 2023, a decade and three years after its predecessor made its debut in stores. The original Alan Wake captivated audiences with its psychological horror narrative inspired by Stephen King. Sam Lake from Remedy Entertainment revealed that the upcoming game will take on a survival horror genre, unlike its predecessor, which he classified as "an action game with elements of horror."

Franchise: Alan Wake

Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X

Release Date: October 27, 2023

Developers: Remedy Entertainment

Publisher: Epic Games

Genre: Survival Horror

Metascore: 89

Editor's P/S

Alan Wake 2 is shaping up to be a thrilling and innovative addition to the survival horror genre. Its unique blend of time loops, multiple protagonists, and supernatural elements is sure to keep players on the edge of their seats. The game's visuals are stunning, and the use of projected objectives and cutscenes is a particularly inspired touch. This feature, which was first seen in Splinter Cell Conviction, adds a new level of immersion and excitement to the gameplay.

In Alan Wake 2, the projected objectives and cutscenes are used to create a truly unsettling atmosphere. The silhouettes of characters moving across the screen, often in live-action, are both eerie and beautiful. They serve to remind players that they are not alone in the Dark Place, and that they are constantly being watched. The use of this feature is a great example of how Alan Wake 2 is taking the survival horror genre to new heights.