After experiencing the mind-blowing mid-credits scene in Alan Wake 2, players will be treated to a heartfelt tribute by Remedy. This tribute acknowledges the contributions of two individuals who have played significant roles in the studio's history: actor Lance Reddick and developer Sami Vanhatalo.
Lance Reddick's notable presence, renowned for his captivating gaze and portrayal of stern characters, made a lasting impact in various mediums. In Remedy's 2016 release Quantum Break, he brought the enigmatic character Martin Hatch to life through his voice acting and likeness. Additionally, Reddick showcased his talents in the game's live-action episodes, which were seamlessly woven into the campaign. His impressive acting career includes memorable roles in The Wire, Fringe, and John Wick, among numerous other projects. Not confined to the screen, Reddick also lent his voice to Commander Zavala in the Destiny series and Sylens in PlayStation's Horizon series. Sadly, he passed away earlier this year, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Vanhalato, on the other hand, worked as a Remedy developer and co-founder, contributing significantly to the success of the Finnish studio's earliest games, Death Rally and the Max Payne series. Sadly, his passing in 2020 marks a significant milestone for Remedy, as Alan Wake 2 becomes the first game they have released since his departure.
Regarding Reddick, there exists a popular fan theory suggesting that he could have played a pivotal role in Alan Wake 2, with speculation surrounding the character Mr. Door and his potential connection to Martin Hatch in an alternate dimension. While Remedy does not have ownership of the Quantum Break intellectual property, the incorporation of a mind-bending multiverse, such as the one found in the Remedy Connected Universe, allows for the creation of legally transformative characters that still bear resemblance to previous beloved characters. This is evident in the character of Alex Casey in Alan Wake 2, serving as a deliberate homage to the iconic Max Payne himself.
David Harewood, known for his roles in CW's DC Comics franchises, Killzone, and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, embodies Mr. Door, and undeniably delivers an outstanding performance, whether or not he fills Reddick's shoes.