Controversial Digital-Only Release for Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 will be exclusively released in digital format by Epic Games, sparking controversy among fans The official website offers an explanation for the decision, but it remains to be seen if it will satisfy the disappointed fans
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The controversy surrounding the release of Alan Wake 2 has sparked discussion about the pros and cons of digital-only releases. While some gamers may appreciate the convenience of accessing their favorite titles online, others worry about the potential downsides. Remedy Entertainment, the developer behind Alan Wake 2, has had two of its previous games removed from distribution platforms due to licensing issues. Although these games were eventually re-listed once the problem was resolved, there is always a risk that older or less popular titles will be delisted and become inaccessible to fans. Unlike physical copies, which can still be found in used game shops or online, digital-only games may disappear forever if the developer stops supporting them. Despite the official explanation provided, some fans may still have concerns about the decision to release Alan Wake 2 exclusively in digital format.
The decision to make Alan Wake 2 digital-only is explained in the game's FAQ section. The answer cites examples of other distributors, like PlayStation and Xbox, who have recently released diskless versions of their products. This trend is becoming increasingly common and helps reduce costs. By going digital, the console version of the game will be priced at $59.99 and the PC version at $49.99, avoiding the $70 price tag of some games. The website also notes that going digital provides a better experience as the game would still require downloading even with a physical disc.
However, the absence of a disc-based version for Alan Wake 2 may prove to be a disappointment for some gamers who prefer physical copies over digital ones. The trend of offering only a digital release for video games has been a point of contention among players, as it limits their agency and control over access to the game. This decision may potentially impact the sales numbers of Alan Wake 2, but only time will tell.
Alan Wake 2 will be released globally on October 17 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Alan Wake 2 FAQ
