We all loved Alan Wake II. And I really wanted to get more of it! Now finally, I got the chance to play the 1st DLC of the game: Night Springs and here is what I think about it. I have to say, it was quite a treat. This DLC is like a fun extension to the Alan Wake universe, packed with three quirky episodes that showcase Remedy Entertainment's signature storytelling and worldbuilding. While it doesn't add much to the main story, it's definitely an enjoyable ride for any fan of the series.
The DLC takes inspiration from the in-universe TV show "Night Springs," which is kind of like "The Twilight Zone." There are three distinct episodes, each giving a fresh take on familiar characters and locations within the Remedy Extended Universe.
Number One Fan
This episode follows Rose, a beloved waitress, on a mission to save her favourite writer from danger. It's filled with humour and action-packed sequences, offering a light-hearted and bloody adventure through the woods.
North Star
In this episode, a woman resembling Control’s Jesse Faden explores Coffee World to find her missing brother. It merges the eerie vibe of Alan Wake with the supernatural elements of Control, creating an intriguing narrative with a few unexpected twists.
Time Breaker
This episode features a version of Sheriff Tim Breaker navigating through the multiverse. It includes nods to Quantum Break and showcases a variety of genres, ensuring an unpredictable and exciting experience.
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The DLC sticks to the core mechanics of Alan Wake II, with third-person shooting and puzzle-solving elements. Each episode has its own little twist on the gameplay, keeping things fresh. For example, Rose’s episode is all about combat, while Jesse’s episode incorporates stealth and environmental puzzles.
Visually, the DLC is right on par with the main game, featuring the same high-quality graphics and atmospheric settings. Some levels are reused from the base game, which might feel a bit repetitive, but the new touches, like the pink colour palette in "Number One Fan," help keep things interesting.
Each episode presents a unique and compelling narrative, filled with Remedy’s trademark charm and wit. The mix of combat, puzzles, and exploration ensures a varied and enjoyable experience. And as always, the game continues to impress with its detailed and atmospheric graphics.
In-Game Screenshots taken on PC
But here is something that could’ve been better. The DLC is relatively brief, with each episode taking about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. This might leave some players wanting more. While there are new elements, the DLC relies on locations from the main game, which can feel a bit repetitive. These cons in no way hamper the experience in any way though.
TSHC Score : 7.5/10
All in all, Alan Wake II: Night Springs is a delightful addition to the Alan Wake universe. It offers a fun and creative journey through its surreal episodes. Even though it's a bit short and some of the environments are reused, the engaging storytelling and varied gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the series. If you loved the base game and want more of that unique Remedy magic, this DLC is definitely worth checking out.
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