Alan Wake is one of the most engaging games I’ve ever played. I was so enthralled with the story, setting, and atmosphere that I completed it in only 2 sittings; one of which was 13 hours long.

Remedy, the developer, successfully made the small town of Bright Falls feel like a real-life location. The distinct personality of its denizens coupled with the farm-town architecture was a perfect match. Even the obvious product placement didn’t seem too out of place.

Then, as the sun set and the moon rose, the dense fog made the forest seem endless.  I tried on several occasions to wander off the dirt trail while hiking through the woods but I found myself too chicken to travel far enough to lose sight of the path.

During these nightly strolls you encounter the “fallen.” Before they cross your path you can hear them talking – saying things they would have said in their day-to-day lives before they were possessed. What is being said is not scary at all, but how they say it is creepy as hell. Battling these freaks through the night becomes so unnerving you begin wishing that the sun would rise sooner.

Many have argued that the ending is weak. I am not one of those people. I appreciate an ending that doesn’t come right out and say what the conclusion is to all the madness. It really makes you think and analyze everything you just experienced.

So if you enjoy a great thriller mystery, Alan Wake is a game you must play.