Unveiling the Glaring Weakness of Alan Wake 2 - A Step Behind its Predecessor

Highlights

The score and soundtrack of a game can greatly impact the overall experience, either enhancing or hindering the immersion and enjoyment for players.

Sound design in survival horror games necessitates meticulous reflection to elicit unease while enabling moments of tranquility. The first installment of Alan Wake exhibited an unforgettable and chilling auditory landscape that seamlessly enhanced its visuals. Consequently, it is imperative for the forthcoming Alan Wake 2 to uphold the utmost excellence in its atmospheric sound design.

The score and soundtrack of a game play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. A well-composed and fitting soundscape can elevate the game, enhancing its components and creating a more memorable and immersive experience. On the other hand, a poorly implemented one can detract from the game's enjoyment, even if the other elements are well-executed. In survival horror games, sound design requires special attention. It must instantly evoke unease in players while allowing for moments of calm, all without becoming obtrusive and interfering with gameplay.

The original Alan Wake game had a brilliantly eerie and haunting soundscape that perfectly complemented its visually striking art design and overall atmosphere. The quiet town of Bright Falls, with its dense forests and perpetual otherworldly fog, sounded just as spooky as it looked. For Alan Wake 2, it is important to maintain the high-quality auditory atmosphere and deliver another suitably chilling soundscape to accompany the gameplay.

Alan Wake 2 Should Ensure Its Music Matters

Composer Petri Alanko, known for his work on the original Alan Wake, has been confirmed to return for Alan Wake 2, suggesting that the sequel's score will be just as spectacular. Music plays a significant role in the world of Alan Wake, with a prime example being an early encounter with the Anderson Brothers at a local diner. One of the brothers asks Alan to play his favorite song on the jukebox, adding a unique touch to the already quirky and slightly strange ambiance of Bright Falls. This light-hearted moment offers players a brief reprieve before the impending horrors unfold.

Later in the story, it is revealed that the Andersons were former members of the heavy metal rock group "Old Gods of Asgard." When Alan comes across them again, he is left grappling to comprehend the events unfolding around him and the town. The Andersons direct him to their dilapidated family farm, which doubled as their studio and performance venue. Inside, Alan discovers and plays one of their old records, listening closely to a specific song that contains cryptic lyrics, unveiling the true nature of the situation and allowing him to formulate a plan to confront it.

The Finnish band Poets of the Fall, close friends with Remedy Entertainment creative director Sam Lake, actually perform the music of Old Gods of Asgard. They have been involved in producing content for Remedy's games since 2003, composing the final track on Max Payne 2 and contributing to other titles as well. Fans often highlight their contribution to Control with their track "Take Control," which exemplifies how music can enhance a gaming moment.

With the confirmation of Alan Wake 2 embracing traditional survival horror elements, there are more opportunities for music to play a significant role in the story and setting. Including puzzles where Alan or the new playable character Saga Anderson (likely related to the brothers) must correctly interpret songs to advance the plot would be a fitting addition. This would align with Remedy's use of sound and create a stronger connection between the music, story, and gameplay. If Alan Wake 2 can incorporate music in unique and interesting ways, it will once again become a standout feature in the series.

Alan Wake 2 releases October 27, 2023, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.