I cannot believe after a 10 year build up an ending was struck this masterfully. A make or break situation that delivered in every single possible aspect. I sobbed through the entire final mission. 10 years of my life, not wasted.

Replaying and although nothing will ever replace the feelings I felt on the first run and how much I do love this game there are some problems.

I LOVE this open world it is the second best I have played next to rdr2. However, because of the freedom the player has to leave areas and level up I feel like it causes some problems with boss balance. The Mountaintop of the Giants and Crumbling Farum Azula have a almost unfair and unfun spike in level and difficulty that promotes over-leveling and stops entire builds from existing in certain fights (Holy LOL). My first run was pure strength with a great-sword which is always fun but I cannot imagine trying a faith build against some of these very late game bosses.

Otherwise, I love it all!

This game is really fun and has some of my favorite voice acting ever. Concept is cool if it was expanded on better especially when you factor in you don't actually have a time limit to your time loop. Arkane Lyon is probably one of my favorite teams in the industry and I hate to say it but this isn't their best.

However, it is STILL a Arkane game and with that you will find extremely enjoyable game play and visuals.

This is a masterclass and a true labor of love and passion for the craft from Remedy and Sam Lake. In a age tainted by cash grabs, barely functioning games, and hyped-up let downs Alan Wake 2 is an anomaly of passion. The medium of video games were pushed and innovated on in ways I personally have never experienced and I cannot wait to see the waves that come off of this success. This is the only time I have felt compelled to write an actual, legible review.

Thank you Sam Lake.

Extreme for it's time and influential even now. This game has not aged well sadly and every single mission in Forerunner installations feels like getting your teeth pulled.

the greatest gameplay loop I have ever gotten to play in a fps that is sadly covered in the mud and dirt of it being a live service 343i game.

great start to one of my favorite franchises in gaming, its age really shows though and Capcom's attempt at this game being a RE clone really holds back the combat