Alan Wake 2: The Search for Barry Wheeler

Highlights

Alan Wake 2 is a pure survival-horror game, unlike the original, and introduces new characters like FBI agent Saga Anderson.

Barry Wheeler, a beloved character in the original game, is absent in Alan Wake 2. However, references to him can be found throughout the game.

Although Barry does not make an appearance in Alan Wake 2, there is speculation that he might be featured in upcoming expansions set to be released in 2024.

Barry Wheeler, the beloved literary agent and comic relief from the first Alan Wake game, won't have a prominent role in Alan Wake 2. In this highly anticipated sequel, the story continues from where the original game left off, reintroducing familiar characters alongside the introduction of new ones, such as FBI agent Saga Anderson.

In addition to introducing new characters, Alan Wake 2 distinguishes itself from the original game in several ways. It adopts a pure survival-horror gameplay style, reminiscent of the Resident Evil remakes rather than the 2010 Alan Wake game. Given the heightened focus on horror, it may come as no surprise to fans that Barry Wheeler does not appear in the new game.

However, this does not mean that Wheeler has been entirely removed from the franchise. In fact, Alan Wake 2 makes multiple references to Wheeler, providing fans with insight into his activities since the events of the 2010 game. Following Wake's disappearance, Wheeler assumes the role of manager for the Old Gods of Asgard band. Eventually, he assists in the establishment of the Valhalla nursing home, which players get to visit in the game, assuming the identity of Saga Anderson. Within Valhalla, players can find a welcome plaque containing a message penned by Wheeler.

Is Barry Wheeler in Alan Wake 2?

No, Barry Wheeler does not appear in Alan Wake 2, but he is mentioned.

While exploring The Dark Place as Alan Wake, players are shown live-action footage of Alice, Wake's wife, speaking directly to the camera about her life after her husband's disappearance. Alice discusses Barry and how he underwent therapy, which led him to believe that the events in Alan Wake were not supernatural but rather a result of PTSD. Following Alan's supposed death, Barry became Alice's close friend, providing her with meals and taking care of her as she grieved. Eventually, Barry "moved out west," indicating that he is likely located there during the events of Alan Wake 2.

While Barry's absence in Alan Wake 2 is notable, there is a genuine possibility of his return in a subsequent game or DLC. Remedy Entertainment has already confirmed the launch of two expansions for Alan Wake 2 by 2024, leaving devoted fans hopeful for the chance to see Barry Wheeler make a comeback in either one.

Alan Wake 2

Alan Wake 2 is set to launch in 2023, marking a thirteen-year gap since the release of its predecessor. The original Alan Wake garnered attention for its thrilling psychological horror narrative inspired by Stephen King. According to Sam Lake from Remedy Entertainment, the upcoming game will focus on survival horror, in contrast to the first game's classification as an action game with horror elements.

Franchise: Alan Wake

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

Release Date: October 27, 2023

Developed by: Remedy Entertainment

Published by: Epic Games

Genre: Survival Horror