Exploring Cults in a Unique Way: A Different Perspective in Alan Wake 2

Article Key Points

Alan Wake 2 takes a unique approach in its depiction of a cult, subverting conventional portrayals and avoiding formulaic storytelling.

The Cult of the Tree is initially portrayed as a potential ally to the Dark Presence, but is ultimately unveiled as a protective measure against the supernatural forces within the town. The Koskela brothers, originally viewed as eccentric inhabitants, are ultimately unmasked as the masterminds behind the Cult of the Tree, with the intention of safeguarding people from the dangers of the haunted woods.

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The horror genre often includes terrifying cults in video games, either as main villains or secondary antagonists. Typically, these cults work alongside the overarching villain. The presence of a cult in a game immediately sets them up as a sinister force opposing the heroes. With clear expectations set, astute fans may even guess which characters are part of the cult and what their motives are before the plot unveils the answers.

Alan Wake 2 throws a wrinkle into how it handles its cult, subverting conventional portrayals and avoiding formulaic storytelling in the process.

How Alan Wake 2 Distinguishes Depicting Its Cult

The Cult Of The Tree In Alan Wake 2

During her investigation into the Cauldron Lake killing in Alan Wake 2, protagonist agent Saga Anderson uncovers a lead that points to an organization called the Cult of the Tree. Initially, Saga believes that the cult is assisting the Dark Presence, a supernatural entity, in transforming townspeople into creatures known as the Taken through strange rituals. The discovery of a Taken's body sparks Saga's curiosity in uncovering the identities and objectives of the cult members. While exploring the town, Saga notices multiple signs and symbols associated with the cult, suggesting a highly organized operation.

Shortly afterwards, Saga encounters the Koskela brothers, lImo and Jaakko. At first glance, they come across as harmless and quirky, resembling the residents influenced by Twin Peaks in Alan Wake 2. Saga plays along with their antics, but her sharp detective instincts alert her that the brothers are concealing something. As she follows additional leads, Saga eventually realizes that her instincts were correct, although not in the manner she initially suspected.

Alan Wake 2 Subverts The Cliche Of The Cult

In the main plot, after encountering the Koskelas, Saga will delve into the workshop of their motorcycle club, known as the Kalevala Knights. It is here that she uncovers a crucial piece of the puzzle: the club serves as a disguise, concealing the true nature of the Cult of the Tree, with the Koskelas acting as the chief organizers. This revelation may not be the most shocking, as audience expectations have already hinted at their involvement. The eccentric duo's connection to the cult and their leadership roles do not come as a major surprise.

It is during Saga's reunion with her partner, Agent Alex Casey, and their confrontation with the brothers that the twist unravels in Alan Wake 2. While interrogating them in prison, the police station is attacked by the Taken, resulting in the death of Jaakko. Subsequently, IImo confesses to their scheme of creating the Cult of the Tree alongside Jaakko, as a means to frighten away residents and potential visitors from the haunted woods. Their intention was to prevent encounters with the Dark Presence and the transformation into Taken; their rituals served as a tool to combat this phenomenon. Contrary to expectations, the Cult of the Tree emerges as a protective force whose agenda aligns with the heroes' mission to ward off the true evil. In Alan Wake 2, the cult is portrayed as an undercover neighborhood watch, actively safeguarding the community from impending horrors, defying the conventional representation of similar groups in the survival horror genre.

Alan Wake 2

Alan Wake 2 is set to be released in 2023, marking a thirteen-year gap since the launch of its predecessor. The original Alan Wake captivated players with its psychological horror story, heavily influenced by the works of Stephen King. According to Sam Lake from Remedy Entertainment, the upcoming game will be a survival horror experience, in contrast to the first installment, which he described as "an action game with horror elements."

Franchise: Alan Wake

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

Release Date: October 27, 2023

Developers: Remedy Entertainment

Publisher: Epic Games

Genre(s): Survival Horror

Metascore: 89

PS Plus Availability: Not Applicable

Official Site: Visit Official Site

Playstation Store: Visit Playstation Store

Editor's P/S

Alan Wake 2 takes a unique approach in exploring cults, setting itself apart from other horror games. The Cult of the Tree is initially portrayed as a potential ally to the Dark Presence, but is ultimately unveiled as a protective measure against the supernatural forces within the town. This subversion of expectations is a refreshing take on the cult trope, and it helps to make Alan Wake 2 a more memorable and engaging experience.

The Koskela brothers, originally viewed as eccentric inhabitants, are ultimately unmasked as the masterminds behind the Cult of the Tree, with the intention of safeguarding people from the dangers of the haunted woods. This twist on the cult trope is both surprising and satisfying, and it helps to add depth to the characters of the Koskela brothers. Overall, Alan Wake 2's unique take on cults is a welcome addition to the horror genre, and it helps to make the game a more memorable and enjoyable experience.