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In the previous chapter of Alan Wake 2, titled "Initiation 3: Haunted," there was a brief gameplay experience. However, once this chapter is completed, the game expands further. Players are treated to cutscenes, conversations with Alan Wake, and an update on the Case Board, ultimately leading to the exciting choice of selecting their playable character. It's worth noting that both Saga and Alan have their own unique missions to embark on.
Interestingly, players have the freedom to tackle these missions in any order they prefer. This walkthrough will primarily focus on experiencing all of Alan's stages before transitioning to Saga's stages. For those Alan Wake 2 players who wish to continue their journey as Alan, let's take a look at what they can anticipate as they begin "Initiation 4: We Sing."
This walkthrough contains spoilers, so players should proceed with caution.
The Performance
While the initial setting may appear similar to that of Initiation 1: Late Night, players will quickly notice a notable shift in the way events unfold. This time, Alan finds himself with a greater degree of control over the surreal nightmare he is trapped in. Look out for the moment when the TV becomes interactive, and be prepared to press and hold the corresponding button as instructed.
Alan's assertion of being in control is up for debate as players are captivated by a mesmerizing musical performance. To fully appreciate the spectacle, players need to continue progressing and embrace the experience. In case players feel stuck or overwhelmed by the overwhelming sensory stimulation in this scene, the live actors will occasionally indicate the direction that players should follow.
After reaching the end of this area, progress the story by interacting with the TV. Players will then find themselves at an award ceremony that doubles as a musical. To continue, go towards the back left of the room where a large ladder can be found. Walk along the catwalk until you reach a dead end, then use the Angel Lamp to acquire its light. By doing so, a new path will be revealed. Go down the ladder and follow this path to discover a flashlight on the ground, along with a gun.
Although it may appear that players have left the studio, that is not the case. Keep moving forward and follow the illuminated neon signs for the Getaway Club. These signs will ultimately lead to a lamp post, from which the light can be obtained using the Angel Lamp. Return to the Taxi and insert the acquired light to make a TV appear. Interact with the TV to enter yet another musical scene.
Once the gate opens, follow the path ahead and search for an ascending ladder. Similar to before, the actors will occasionally indicate the correct direction. Upon reaching the top of the ladder, players will come across a replicated version of the Writer's Room, complete with a typewriter and the flare gun. The path becomes accessible once the players have obtained the flare gun.
At this stage, players will encounter some Taken enemies. They will not possess enough batteries to break through all the shields; however, a single shot from the flare gun can eliminate a Taken. If players manage to gather the Taken together, a single shot from the flare gun can eliminate multiple Taken simultaneously. Along the way, there are several red boxes that provide ample supplies of both batteries and ammunition.
Back in the Studio
Continue along the path until you reach another replica of the Writer's Room. Interact with the TV in that room to be transported back to the studio. Proceed through the door ahead and activate the Echo, which will trigger a new musical number. Move forward and ascend the incredibly long ladder to discover a storyboard for the Herald of Darkness. Place the Song's End storythread onto the scene to spawn a TV that can be interacted with.
Following the final live-action musical scene, the show will finally conclude. Walk past Ahti as he quietly murmurs the song lyrics from earlier. Unfortunately, there is no option to engage in conversation with him. Continue towards the exit sign. On the right side, you will find a save point and an area where players can switch over to Saga if desired. This walkthrough will focus solely on Alan's side of the story for now, so save the game and proceed towards the door, which leads outside. While Alan delivers a monologue, make your way towards the ringing payphone.
Go to the Oceanview Hotel
After conversing with the enigmatic caller, direct your gaze towards the colossal neon signage on the left, boldly proclaiming "Oceanview Hotel". Proceed in its direction and make your way inside the establishment, advancing through the hallway. The apparent simplicity of this task should be noted, as it is intentionally designed to deceive.
Regrettably, any endeavor to access the hotel from this specific approach will inevitably result in failure, leading players back to the hotel's entrance. Depart from the premises and seek out a neon sign adorned with the words "Mirror Peak Bar". Follow the guidance of the arrows displayed. Once located, veer right down the alleyway to initiate a captivating cutscene that signifies the culmination of the current chapter.
Alan Wake 2 is available now on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.