Leaves you feeling vulnerable
Secondly, also helping to create tension, is the soundtrack and audio work which is nothing short of outstanding. Turn the lights down low and crank up the volume and the sounds of creeking floorboards and noises in the woods will make you totally paranoid and on edge. With audio and visuals so strong this is a game that makes you feel vulnerable and uncertain as to what horrors lie ahead. The voice acting is also very strong and believable as is Alan’s narration that keeps the storyline moving at a pace fast enough to keep you interested.Indeed, one of Alan Wake's biggest strength is the plot. This starts off as a supernatural tale of the highest calibre with enjoyable twists and turns and a great set of characters. It does well to grab you by the throat from the outset right up until the ending where it dissapointingly concludes, sort of, with what we think is one huge anti-climax for a tale that was showing such promise.
The same applies to the gameplay, which is full of promise but ultimately delivers little. The use of light and darkness in the game are two compelling contrasts. During the night time you’ll find yourself fighting against a variety of axe and chain-saw wielding enemies and in the contrasting calm of the daytime you’ll find yourself exploring and searching for collectibles. Light is basically an extra weapon. You use your torch or other light-emitting gadgets, such as spotlights or flares, to destroy the dark shadows that emanate from your enemies and then you can use you standard weapons to kill them.
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