Alan Wake 2 Embraces and Amplifies its Signature Gimmick to Perfection

Article Key Points

Alan Wake 2 introduces multiple new gameplay mechanics and fully embraces the series' unique element of reality-bending writing.

Writing takes on a pivotal role in the plot of Alan Wake 2. The game delves into time loops, alternate realities, and two intertwined storylines that are heavily influenced by Alan Wake's writing.

In a new development, players are empowered with Alan Wake's extraordinary paranormal abilities. This enables them to manipulate reality, uncover previously unseen scenes, and explore intriguing plot concepts within the enigmatic Dark Place.

Over the past 27 years, Remedy Entertainment has consistently delivered a multitude of high-budget, high-quality video game experiences, with each one offering a distinct and unparalleled gameplay experience. Renowned for their unconventional approach, Remedy ensures that every game they create incorporates at least one innovative gameplay mechanic. Max Payne introduced the revolutionary bullet-time feature, while Control allowed players to levitate and utilize telekinesis. However, Alan Wake 2 surpasses these predecessors by offering not only one, but several distinctive gameplay features.

While the original Alan Wake boasted intriguing narrative elements, its gameplay mechanics were somewhat lacking. As an action-thriller game, Alan Wake relied heavily on shooting enemies while using a flashlight to reveal their vulnerabilities, which was its sole unique gameplay gimmick. In Alan Wake 2, these light-based mechanics have been significantly enhanced, accompanied by a range of new gameplay gimmicks. Moreover, the game fully embraces the series' most distinctive aspect: Alan Wake's ability to manipulate reality through his extraordinary writing skills.

Alan Wake 2 Finally Embraces the Hero's Reality-Shifting Abilities

How Alan Wake Handled Writing

The Alan Wake series has a primary gimmick, aside from its light-based action. The main character, who is also an author, possesses a paranatural ability to manipulate reality through his writing. In the first game, players do not have access to this ability, as it serves more as a plot device. The story starts with the protagonist awakening from a car crash and losing his memory of his previous whereabouts. He soon discovers a fragment of a manuscript called "Departure," which coincides with the book he had planned to write.

As the events in the book come to life, it becomes apparent that Alan Wake can alter reality through his writing. Throughout the game, players can discover optional collectibles in the form of pages from "Departure." Each page either describes a past event or foreshadows what is yet to come. While this unique premise may be thrilling, some fans found it challenging to fully embrace since they do not possess the power themselves within the game.

Alan Wake 2 Finally Puts the Hero's Writing at the Forefront

In Alan Wake 2, the role of writing takes on an even more significant role in the narrative. Without revealing too many details, Alan Wake 2's story revolves around time loops, multiple realities, and the intertwined storylines of two protagonists. Central to all of these elements is Alan Wake's writing. As players progress through Alan Wake 2, they will gradually uncover the profound impact that the eponymous writer's work has on nearly every aspect of the game's story.

But the biggest difference this time is that players themselves can now wield this paranormal power. As they control Alan Wake, they become trapped in the nightmare realm called the Dark Place. Even here, Alan retains his ability to alter reality through his writing, and players are given the same power. Upon entering a new area of the Dark Place, players receive a notification that a "New Scene" has been unlocked. They can also discover fresh "Plot Ideas" by exploring the environment. By visiting the Writer's Room in Alan's mind, players can mix and match various scenes and plot ideas.

This action completely transforms Alan's surroundings. For example, while in a movie theater lobby, players can activate a plot idea that unleashes a cult, causing blood stains to spread across the walls, altering its usual appearance. Though the sequel doesn't extensively delve into Alan Wake's paranormal writing, it offers an engaging way to solve environmental puzzles while embracing the series' distinct feature and demonstrating the immense power of this ability within the game's narrative.

Alan Wake 2 is set to launch in 2023, marking a thirteen-year gap since the release of its predecessor. The initial Alan Wake game captivated players with its psychological horror story inspired by the works of Stephen King. Sam Lake, from Remedy Entertainment, revealed that the upcoming game will delve into the survival horror genre, contrasting with the first game's depiction as "an action game with horror elements."

Franchise Alan WakePlatform(s) PC, PS5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series XReleased October 27, 2023Developer(s) Remedy EntertainmentPublisher(s) Epic GamesGenre(s) Survival HorrorMetascore 89

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am incredibly excited about the upcoming release of Alan Wake 2. The first game was a unique and unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to see what Remedy Entertainment has in store for us this time around.

One of the things I love most about the Alan Wake series is its focus on writing. In the first game, players were able to collect pages from Alan's manuscript, which provided insight into his thoughts and feelings. This mechanic added a real sense of depth to the story, and I'm glad to see that it will be returning in Alan Wake 2.

In addition to the writing mechanics, I'm also excited about the new gameplay features that have been revealed. The ability to manipulate reality through writing is a really cool concept, and I can't wait to see how it's used in the game. I'm also looking forward to exploring the Dark Place, which is sure to be full of secrets and surprises.

Overall, I'm very optimistic about Alan Wake 2. The first game was a classic, and I think the sequel has the potential to be even better. I can't wait to get my hands on it when it releases in 2023.