Alan Wake 2looks set to add to 2023’s survival horror game roster with its unique flavor of light mechanics and storytelling. The recentDead SpaceandResident Evil 4remakes may leave fans of the genre desperate for more, soAlan Wake 2could fill that void. Fans ofResident Evilvideo games might notice a few parallels in the PlayStation showcaseAlan Wake 2trailer, such as the third-person camera over-the-shoulder perspective. However, there are a couple of things beyond the trailer some players might have missed that could be game-changing.

There were many significantResident Evil 4 Remakechangescompared to the original game that altered the story or gameplay for the better, like the improvements around Ashley’s playable mission when rescuing Leon. As a sequel to the 2010 game,Alan Wake 2looks like it might similarly introduce some new types of collectibles or unlockables for players to discover in addition to weapons and items players are likely to recognize from the original or remasteredAlan Wakegame. Although it’s currently unconfirmed what collectibles will show up, there is some information about the possible new additions in theAlan Wake 2pre-order packs, which might give players a clue about what else to expect as a potential page fromResident Evil 4’s playbook is taken.

resident evil 4 green herb charm

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How Alan Wake 2’s Charms Could Impact Its Horror Survival Gameplay

Alan Wake 2currently has standardAlan Wake 2and Deluxe Edition preorder options, which include some pre-order extras. One noteworthy addition in both versions is a new charm feature forAlan Wake 2’s new playable character, Saga. The standard edition includes a coffee mug charm that saves Saga from a killing blow. However, the small print adds this can only be used once as it breaks upon use, adding survival pack items become unlocked after the game’s second mission. In comparison, the Deluxe edition includes a lantern charm for Saga, giving her an additional battery for the flashlight. It is currently unknown how players attach these charms, but presumably, they might appear somewhere in the player’s inventory.

Interestingly,Alan Wake 2’s charms also look noticeably similar toResident Evil 4 Remake’s charms, which players could attach to Leon’s attaché case to give him certain buffs or perks, like the Striker charm which increases Leon’s running speed by 8%, or the green herb health boost charm. Although it’s currently unknown if any other charms might appear, players can imagine similar attachableResident Evil 4 Remake-stylecharms that could give Alan and Saga a crucial advantage or critical save at key points in the story.

Alan Wake Remastered circled collectible at bird leg cabin cliffside

How Alan Wake 2 Might Improve Alan Wake Remastered’s Collectibles

Alan Wake’s collectibles like thermos flasksdon’t have any specific gameplay function beyond achievement-hunting. However, more discoverable charms in-game or other purposeful collectibles could be a fascinating game-changer and increase replayability, giving players more reason to replay the game after beating the story. AsAlan Wake 2includes a coffee cup and lantern charm, it’s possible, albeit unconfirmed, that there may be other charms that do different things for Alan or Saga. For example, a blue thermos charm could give players a temporary stamina boost when running. Although Alan’s slow running speed added tension, a longer sprinting duration could prove invaluable at critical moments.

It will be interesting to see what types of collectibles could appear and what they might add toAlan Wake 2’s survival horrorgameplay experience. This might become clearer once the game’s achievement list becomes available or as more details emerge.

Alan Wake 2is due for release on Aug 06, 2025, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

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