14 DAY TRIAL // Remedy and Microsoft have finally announced a release date for Alan Wake, which has been in development for quite some time (long enough for people to wonder whether we are looking at the next Duke Nukem Forever). The title is set to arrive exclusively on the Xbox 360 home gaming console in the spring of 2010 and an intriguing playing experience is being promised by the developers. Microsoft is said to handle distribution.
Remedy is boasting that the physiological action thriller will deliver on multiple fronts, blending mystery and investigation with frantic action and some deep horror-inspired moments. The character that lends his name to the game, Alan Wake, needs to discover what the town of Bright Falls is all about while getting to the bottom of the disappearance of the love of his life.
Remedy has always said that its game would set a new standard when it comes to storytelling in videogames by creating memorable characters and a plot that twisted and turned to always keep players on their toes. The environment is set to play a big part in the game, with players having to balance the need to explore in order to gain clues related to their situation with the dangers that might lurk in any corner of the town.
One of the big reveals at this year’s E3 is how much light will be featured in the game, with developers describing it as the greatest ally that Alan Wake has against the deep shadows emerging out of the ironically named Bright Falls. Managing the switch between sources of light and conventional weapons will be one of the main actions a players will need to master.
Remedy is even going so far as to compare Alan Wake with such well-known TV series as Twin Peaks and the X-Files. We'll have to wait until 2010 to see that.