E3 2005: Remedy introduces Alan Wake

News - Thrilling new action title announced

Rumours abound prior to E3 about that nature of Remedy's top-secret 'non-Max Payne' title have been laid to rest today with an official statement from the Finnish studio, announcing Alan Wake. The new title is once again all about the atmosphere and the plot, putting players in the role of Alan Wake, a horror novelist whose darkest nightmares are explored in the game. Said visions of horror will unfold in small-town America, and the new title is described as a 'psychological action thriller'.

As with the Max Payne series, Alan Wake is all about the single player experience, and we're promised a massive, open-ended world in which the players actions drive the plot. A mission-based structure will also be used to help tie things together somewhat. "In Alan Wake we want to weave the story tightly into the gameplay. Combining intense and cinematic storytelling with player freedom is an interesting and exciting challenge," enthused Sam Lake, Lead Writer, "Mood and atmosphere are essential parts of a thriller, and we want them to be present throughout the whole gameplay experience."

High definition visuals and clever use of lighting will also be a key part of the Alan Wake experience, and Remedy state that they have developed their own technology especially. "We're putting a huge effort into building a free-roaming, living world for the players." adds Petri Jarvilehto, Lead Game Designer, "The true power of the next generation comes from the dynamic nature of the environment, not only making things pretty, but also making the world more versatile, varied and immersive."

No release date has been offered by Remedy, though we do know it's being created for the PC, and 'next-generation' consoles. More soon.