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Alan Wake Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Alan Wake Remastered
Item: Alan Wake Remastered
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Horror, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableOct 5, 2021

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperRemedy Entertainment

Overview

In this award-winning cinematic action-thriller, troubled author Alan Wake embarks on a desperate search for his missing wife, Alice. Alan Wake Remastered offers the complete experience, with the main game and its two story expansions - The Signal and The Writer - with stunning new 4K visuals.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered has received mostly positive reviews for its gripping, episodic narrative that echoes a Stephen King thriller, praised for its suspense and character dynamics. Critics commend its thematic depth but note flaws like clichéd dialogue and potential confusion in the plot. Despite some mixed feedback, many hail it as a "masterpiece," making the engaging story a standout highlight of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Alan Wake Remastered has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its compelling narrative and engaging structure. Many reviewers noted the unique episodic format, which enhances the storytelling experience by creating a sense of suspense and pacing akin to a television series. For instance, IGN described the narrative as a "pulpy, Stephen King-style thriller" that is "consistently enthralling," while Gaming Age emphasized the creepy atmosphere and interesting character dynamics that populate the world. Critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer Italy echoed this sentiment, praising the depth of the story and its exploration of themes such as creativity and personal struggle, making it a standout aspect of the game. However, not all reviews were uniformly positive. Some critics pointed out flaws in the narrative, with Metro GameCentral criticizing the writing as "hackneyed" and the characters as "thinly sketched." Finger Guns also noted that while the story is engaging, it suffers from clichés and poorly written dialogue. Additionally, Push Square mentioned that the execution might leave some players confused, indicating that the complexity of the plot could be a double-edged sword. NME described the story as "impenetrable yet well-written," suggesting that while it has merits, it may also alienate some players who struggle to grasp its intricacies. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards a favorable view of Alan Wake Remastered's story. Despite some criticisms regarding its execution and occasional reliance on tropes, the majority found the narrative to be engaging and thought-provoking. Critics like WellPlayed and GamingTrend described it as a "masterpiece" and a "standout aspect," reinforcing the idea that the story's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The blend of horror, psychological elements, and the exploration of the protagonist's psyche resonated with many, making it a memorable experience for players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered offers a thrilling blend of light-based combat and exploration, praised for its strategic tension by some critics. However, many reviewers slam its repetitiveness, outdated controls, and lack of innovation, branding it tedious and stuck in the past. The game shines in its unique mechanics but ultimately falls short of modern standards, leaving players divided on its overall value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Alan Wake Remastered has garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting its unique mechanics as a strong point. Many reviewers appreciate the innovative use of light as a weapon against shadowy enemies, which adds a strategic layer to combat. Critics like PlayStation Universe and IGN France commend the dynamic combat experience created by juggling flashlight and firearms, which enhances the tension and engagement throughout the game. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GameSpot and EGM, emphasize the thrilling nature of the combat system, which combines exploration and action in a way that remains captivating, even if some elements feel dated. The game’s ability to maintain a sense of urgency and tension through its mechanics is noted by multiple reviewers, contributing to a compelling overall experience. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with various aspects of the gameplay, particularly regarding its repetitiveness and lack of variety. Finger Guns and Push Square describe the combat as tedious and monotonous, with controls that feel outdated. Metro GameCentral and Games.cz echo these sentiments, criticizing the game for its easy difficulty and lack of evolving combat mechanics. The consensus among many reviewers is that while the core gameplay remains engaging, it suffers from a lack of depth and variety, leading to a feeling of frustration and boredom as the game progresses. Critics like DualShockers and Trusted Reviews also highlight the dated nature of the gameplay compared to modern standards, suggesting that it fails to innovate or improve upon the original experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Alan Wake Remastered presents a unique and engaging gameplay experience rooted in its light and darkness mechanics, but it is marred by repetitiveness and outdated controls. While some, like Dexerto and GameGrin, find the combat exhilarating and tense, many others, including IGN and Xbox Achievements, feel that the game does not adequately evolve from its original form, making it feel like a relic of its time. The mixture of praise and criticism indicates that while the game retains its charm, it may not resonate as strongly with players accustomed to more modern gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered impresses on PS5 and Xbox Series X with stunning 4K visuals and smooth 60 FPS, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of Bright Falls. Critics laud the improved lighting and detail, but the Nintendo Switch version falters with "hideous" graphics and flat image quality, showcasing a stark decline. While modern consoles elevate the experience, some character models feel outdated, and the lack of advanced features like ray tracing holds it back. Overall, it’s a mixed bag: visually striking yet marred by its legacy and disparities across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Alan Wake Remastered reveal a clear appreciation for the enhancements made in the remaster, particularly on more powerful consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics such as MGG Spain and Pure Xbox praised the game for its stunning 4K resolution and 60 FPS gameplay, which significantly elevate the atmospheric experience of Bright Falls. WellPlayed and Game Informer highlighted the improved lighting effects and richly detailed environments, noting that the remaster retains the eerie and believable quality that aligns with the game's dark narrative. The remaster's visual upgrades, including better character models and textures, were also acknowledged by multiple reviewers, such as GameSpot and GamingTrend, who found the overall presentation effective and appealing. However, the reviews also pointed out several significant drawbacks, especially concerning the Nintendo Switch version, which was widely criticized. Critics like Gaming Age and Nintendo Life described the Switch graphics as "hideous" and "muddy," with severe downgrades that detracted from the game's visual identity. Issues such as incorrect texture loading and flat image quality were noted by Hey Poor Player, while NintendoWorldReport echoed similar sentiments about the lack of detail. Even on more powerful consoles, some critics, including ComicBook and COGconnected, mentioned that while there were improvements, the character models and animations still showed signs of aging, with stiff movements and awkward expressions detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Alan Wake Remastered succeeds in improving the visual fidelity compared to the original game, particularly on modern consoles, but it is not without its flaws. While many praised the atmospheric enhancements and graphical upgrades, the remaster does not fully escape its legacy, with several critics noting that some character models and animations remain outdated. The mixed reception of the Switch version further emphasizes the disparity in quality across platforms. Critics like IGN and VGC highlighted that while the remaster holds up well against modern standards, it lacks some advanced features like ray tracing, which could have further elevated the experience. Thus, while Alan Wake Remastered offers a visually improved experience, it also serves as a reminder of the original's limitations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered is lauded for its exceptional sound design and haunting soundtrack, which heighten the game's immersive atmosphere. Critics praise the PS5's 3D audio and licensed tracks from artists like David Bowie for enriching the experience. However, concerns about audio mixing and voice acting depth suggest room for improvement. Despite these issues, the overall reception remains overwhelmingly positive, affirming that the audio greatly enhances gameplay enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Alan Wake Remastered have received widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive and atmospheric experience. Reviewers such as Atomix and CGMagazine praised the audio design for its execution, noting how the 3D audio capabilities on PS5 enhance the unsettling atmosphere, while COGconnected described the sound design as both cerebral and visceral, especially when experienced with headphones. The soundtrack has also been a focal point of praise, with critics like Dexerto and Push Square acknowledging its ability to punctuate the game's narrative twists and enhance the overall atmosphere. The inclusion of licensed music from notable artists like David Bowie and Nick Cave further enriches the experience, as highlighted by GameSkinny and KeenGamer, who noted how the music complements the game's eerie tone and narrative. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out issues with the audio mixing and volume balance. Digital Chumps noted difficulties in hearing commentary at times due to volume inconsistencies, while GameByte echoed similar concerns regarding dialogue clarity. Additionally, PLAY! Zine mentioned that the voice acting lacked emotional depth, which could detract from the overall immersive experience. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is generally strong, there are aspects that could benefit from refinement to enhance clarity and emotional engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Alan Wake Remastered excels in sound design and music, effectively contributing to the game's haunting atmosphere and immersive storytelling. Most reviewers, including GameSpot and Worth Playing, emphasized the high quality of the audio, with many praising the haunting soundtrack and effective sound design as key elements that elevate the gameplay experience. While there are some criticisms regarding audio mixing and voice acting, the majority sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, affirming that the audio aspects of Alan Wake Remastered significantly enhance the overall enjoyment and immersion of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Alan Wake Remastered receives mostly positive reviews for enhancing narrative depth and character immersion, with praise for notable actors enriching the experience. However, criticisms highlight inconsistent performances and awkward dialogue that can detract from engagement. Overall, the voice acting boosts the game's storytelling but has notable flaws that prevent universal acclaim.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Alan Wake Remastered has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's narrative experience. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and GameMAG praised the performances, noting that the voice acting adds depth to character development and enhances the storytelling. The inclusion of notable actors, such as the original voice of Max Payne, further enriches the experience, as mentioned by Digital Chumps. Critics like God is a Geek and MGG Spain echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the high quality of the voice cast and its role in maintaining immersion. Additionally, the improvements in character models and animations have been noted to complement the voice performances, with GameByte mentioning that these enhancements help bring the characters to life. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive, as some critics pointed out shortcomings in the voice acting. For instance, GamingBolt described certain performances as "mostly stilted," which, while fitting for the game's tone, may detract from the overall experience. Metro GameCentral went further, criticizing the dialogue for being poor and cringe-inducing, which can hinder character engagement. Checkpoint Gaming also noted that some character performances were flat or unintentionally humorous, potentially breaking immersion. This mixed feedback indicates that while many aspects of the voice acting were well-received, there were notable inconsistencies that some critics found problematic. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that the voice acting in Alan Wake Remastered is generally effective and contributes positively to the narrative, though it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers, including Atomix and Multiplayer.it, highlighted the voice acting's role in enhancing the storytelling and character depth. However, the criticisms regarding certain performances and dialogue quality, as noted by critics like Metro GameCentral and Checkpoint Gaming, indicate that the voice acting experience can vary significantly. This duality reflects a complex reception, where the strengths of the voice acting shine through, but certain weaknesses prevent it from being universally acclaimed.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with 60 FPS and enhanced visuals but suffers from issues like stuttering and missing assets. The Nintendo Switch version flounders with "hideous" graphics and unstable performance. Critics agree that while improvements are noticeable, significant flaws across all platforms mean the game may fall short of expectations, suggesting patches are needed for an optimal experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Alan Wake Remastered varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with each offering distinct experiences. On the PlayStation 5, many critics noted that the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, with some reviews highlighting 4K resolution capabilities and minimal load times. For instance, GamingBolt and Digital Chumps praised the remaster for its well-optimized performance and improvements over the original version. Similarly, Xbox Series X players reported a generally stable experience, with GameSkinny and Eurogamer Italy noting the game runs at 60 FPS and offers enhanced resolution. On the Nintendo Switch, despite some criticisms, there were mentions of steady performance and manageable controls from NintendoWorldReport, which indicates that the game can still function adequately on this platform. However, the technical shortcomings are glaring, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where critics like Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player described the visuals as "hideous" and criticized the unstable frame rates and long load times, suggesting a poorly optimized port. On the PlayStation 5, while many reviews are positive, issues such as missing assets, stuttering cutscenes, and occasional frame rate dips were reported by critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Comicbook.com, indicating that the remaster is not without its flaws. The Xbox Series X also faced its share of criticisms, with KeenGamer and MGG Spain mentioning stuttering during cutscenes and control delays, which detracted from the overall gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Alan Wake Remastered performs best on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, where the technical enhancements are more pronounced, despite some lingering issues. The Nintendo Switch version, however, appears to be the weakest link, with significant performance problems overshadowing its potential. While many critics like COGconnected and IGN noted the improvements and smoother gameplay on modern consoles, the recurring issues across all platforms indicate that the remaster may not fully meet the expectations set by its legacy. The need for patches and updates is a common theme, with several critics suggesting that players may need to wait for fixes to fully enjoy the experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Alan Wake Remastered garners mixed reviews on replay value. While some critics praise added DLC and engaging storytelling that entice both newcomers and returning players, others argue the lack of significant gameplay changes and repetitive mechanics make it less appealing for casual gamers. Ultimately, the remaster offers nostalgia and extra content, but many feel it falls short in compelling reasons to replay, especially for those familiar with the original.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Alan Wake Remastered present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting the positive aspects of the game. Several reviewers, such as IGN France and KeenGamer, note that the inclusion of additional content like DLCs and bonus episodes enhances the overall experience, providing value for both newcomers and returning fans. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Game Informer also mention the engaging narrative and collectibles that can motivate players to revisit the game, suggesting that for those who appreciate the story and exploration, there is a reason to return. Furthermore, Xbox Achievements and SomosXbox emphasize the game's necessity for both new players and veterans, indicating a high replay value for those invested in the narrative and its connections to the broader Remedy universe. Conversely, many reviewers express concerns regarding the game's replay value, primarily due to the lack of significant changes from the original version. Critics such as Push Square and Trusted Reviews argue that the repetitive gameplay and absence of new content limit the game's appeal for action fans and casual players alike. Additionally, Metro GameCentral and MondoXbox point out that the remaster does not offer enough new experiences to entice players to return, particularly for those who have already played the original. The sentiment is echoed by BaziCenter and Digital Chumps, who highlight that while the game may have some collectibles, the overall desire to replay it is diminished by time constraints and the unchanged nature of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Alan Wake Remastered has some replay value due to its engaging story and the inclusion of DLCs, many feel that it falls short of providing a compelling reason for players to revisit it extensively. The opinions of critics like GameMAG and GameSpot reflect a division between those who appreciate the narrative depth and collectibles and those who find the lack of significant gameplay changes a deterrent. Ultimately, while the remaster offers a nostalgic experience and additional content, the replay value appears to be limited for many, particularly for those familiar with the original game.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Alan Wake Remastered" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and atmospheric setting. Reviewers like Pure Xbox and Digital Chumps highlight the enhanced visuals and compelling story, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and returning fans. The remaster's ability to evoke nostalgia while providing modern updates is noted by several critics, including GamingBolt, who calls it a must-play for genre enthusiasts. Additionally, the inclusion of improved graphics and sound design has been appreciated, with IGN Portugal emphasizing the game's original concept and captivating storytelling as key strengths. However, the remaster is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers express disappointment regarding the gameplay mechanics, which some describe as dated and lacking in depth. Finger Guns and Push Square mention that the remaster feels more like a barebones upgrade rather than a significant improvement, with uninspired combat and pacing issues that may alienate new players. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Gaming Age specifically point out the poor performance of the Switch version, asserting that it detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, some critics, including Eurogamer Italy and Wccftech, note that while the remaster enhances the visual experience, it does not innovate enough to feel fresh for returning players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Alan Wake Remastered" is a solid remaster that successfully revitalizes a classic while retaining its core appeal. Most agree that it is particularly enjoyable for fans of the horror genre and those familiar with Remedy's storytelling style, as noted by critics like Stevivor and Gfinity. While some gameplay shortcomings and technical issues persist, the remaster is generally viewed as a worthwhile experience, especially for those who missed the original game. Thus, despite its flaws, the remaster is celebrated for its narrative depth and atmospheric qualities, making it a recommended title for both new players and veterans alike.

TL;DR

"Alan Wake Remastered" garners positive reviews for its gripping story and enhanced visuals, appealing to both new and returning fans. Critics praise its nostalgic value but criticize dated gameplay mechanics and performance issues, particularly on the Switch. While it's seen as a solid remaster that brings a classic to life, some feel it lacks innovation. Overall, it's a recommended title for horror genre enthusiasts, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

120 reviews found

100

GameGrin

Apr 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Alan Wake Remastered, praising its narrative, combat mechanics, and improved visuals. Minor complaints are attributed to the game's age.

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100

Stevivor

Xbox Series X

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered is described as a 'remasterpiece,' successfully capturing the essence of the original while enhancing the experience for both new and returning players.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Oct 25, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered is a successful remaster that enhances the original while maintaining its core experience. It is highly recommended for horror fans and newcomers alike.

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Gfinity

PlayStation 5

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review highly recommends Alan Wake Remastered, considering it an exceptional game that holds up strong even after a decade. The only major issue mentioned is the stuttering cutscenes.

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Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Alan Wake Remastered is an essential purchase and gives it a rating of 9/10.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered es una celebración de la obra original, mejorando aspectos técnicos y manteniendo la esencia de la historia, convirtiéndolo en un título esencial de 2021.

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered is a definite improvement in visuals, offering the same great story and intense gameplay throughout.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered is praised as one of the most unique games in the psychological horror genre. The story, gameplay, and atmosphere are strong, although the character models and facial animations have not aged well. The inclusion of the DLC episodes and the QR codes hinting at a future for the series add value to the remastered version.

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WellPlayed

PlayStation 5

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Alan Wake Remastered is a well-produced title with a compelling narrative, despite some reflections of its original development. It expresses delight in the opportunity for more fans to experience the game and the possibility of seeing more of the protagonist's story in the future.

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Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Alan Wake Remastered is the best way to experience the game, especially for horror and Remedy's other titles fans. The remastered enhancements bring the game up to modern standards, although some gameplay issues remain. It is a joyous experience and a perfect treat for the Halloween season.