Highlights
Alan Wake 2, a long-awaited survival-horror game, is set to take the franchise in a new direction and may feature the Federal Bureau of Control from Control.
Released in 2019, Control contained multiple references to Alan Wake, and its downloadable content (DLC) unveiled a link between the two games, hinting at a potential crossover in Alan Wake 2.
Although the specifics of Control's integration with Alan Wake 2 remain uncertain, the inclusion of the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) and protagonist Jesse Faden may be plausible, as they may address the aftermath of Alan Wake's decisions and lay the foundation for future events in Control 2.
Remedy Entertainment officially unveiled Alan Wake 2 last year, more than a decade after the release of the original game, surprising fans who had almost given up hope. The sequel promised a new direction for the franchise, focusing on survival-horror elements. Interestingly, this game could potentially intersect with another Remedy title.
Back in 2019, the developer launched a new intellectual property called Control, which unexpectedly had a connection to Alan Wake. Critically acclaimed, Control sold over three million copies worldwide and is now getting a sequel. Given the events of the first Control game, it is highly likely that the Federal Bureau of Control will make an appearance in Alan Wake 2.
How Control Connected With Alan Wake
Control was filled with numerous references to Alan Wake, surprising players throughout the game. These references included random documents and explicit mentions of the incident in Bright Falls, known as the AWE. The band, the Old Gods of Asgard, featured in Control and there were subtle hints related to Alan Wake for observant players. However, the two franchises would become even more closely connected almost a year after Control's release.
The Alan Wake DLC for Control brought forth chilling implications for the renowned writer. Following the Bright Falls incident, the FBC took charge of the investigation, leading to Alan Wake appearing before Jesse Faden. Through the Hotline Calls, she would receive his messages, which caused upheaval due to his reality-altering abilities. It becomes evident that he was responsible for the AWE expansion incident in the game, resulting in a section of the building being sealed off. Furthermore, it is hinted that he may have even triggered the Hiss incident. Regardless, it is highly unlikely that Jesse Faden and the FBC will simply overlook these revelations.
How Control May Tie Into Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 seems to be carving its own path, with a story resembling that of the first game. The protagonist, Alan Wake, suffers from memory loss and finds himself in a town filled with self-created horrors. Unlike the first game, the Federal Agents seen in the trailers are FBI agents, not affiliated with the FBC. However, the gameplay trailer for Alan Wake 2 includes several nods to Control, solidifying the connection between the two games. This suggests the possibility of a crossover.
Based on the current information, it is reasonable to assume that Jesse Faden and the FBC might make a minor appearance in Alan Wake 2. They may appear towards the end of the game or in a DLC, focusing on rectifying the consequences of Alan's actions. It is also possible that such an appearance or DLC could serve as a setup for the events in Control 2.
The plans for the sequel from Remedy Entertainment are uncertain, causing concern for some due to the company's vague marketing strategy regarding Alan Wake 2. It is logical to assume that the FBC will have some involvement in the game's storyline. The extent of their appearance, whether it be a minor cameo or a major role, remains unknown. However, it is highly probable that the sequel will bring the renowned writer on a collision course with Control. Alan Wake 2 is set to release on October 17, 2023, and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.