Alan Wake: The Signal (DLC) – Review – Xbox 360

The first downloadable episode to the highly acclaimed psychological thriller Alan Wake is finally here. The aptly titled episode, “The Signal” provides a creepier and more action-packed experience that continues the story of Alan Wake.

Story: “In “The Signal,” Alan finds himself facing a threat unlike anything he has encountered before – and yet, the nightmarish mysteries feel intimately familiar for our favorite writer.  Ravaged by dark forces and longing for his wife, Alan is lost and in danger of losing his mind.  His only hope for survival lies with the mysterious Diver, Thomas Zane.

The first Game Add-on for “Alan Wake” delves into the twisted world of the author’s subconscious and invites you to dive into the depths of darkness.  Explore the boundaries of reality in the next chapter of “Alan Wake” as Alan’s nightmares are coming to life.” - Taken from the official description for the DLC

Gameplay: Playing through The Signal will feel very similar to the original game but, instead of the slow story driven gameplay, The Signal is filled with action packed sequences. You still get a continuation of the story, and I must say, it is really well done in that it doesn’t feel like it is tacked on, but it is much darker, creepier, and action oriented. Your flashlight combined with a gun is still the main tool for destroying the darkness, but you will be using it a lot more than you did in the original game. Right from the get go, The Signal felt a lot like Silent Hill with the dark and suspenseful gameplay. I must say, there will never be a dull moment in this new DLC. You will also notice new hidden objects to find and collect as well as new achievements to gain.

Graphics/Audio: As soon as The Signal started up, I was once again taken aback by the visuals. It’s been about a month since I last played the game and almost forgot just how stunning the environment looked; and, once again, suspenseful and action music is played throughout with ambient sounds in the background leaving you wondering what’s around the next corner or if there is something following you.

Overall: The Signal is a perfect continuation to the Alan Wake story. You get a perfect mix of intense and suspenseful story with action-packed gameplay. The familiar narrative voice of Alan Wake is heard throughout and provides a playable TV show like experience. When complete, you will be thirsting for more and wanting to dive into the second DLC right away. The continuation from Alan Wake will be available to download on the XBLM tomorrow, July 27th. If you bought the game new, you should have a card within the box to download “The Signal” free otherwise it will cost 560 MS points – which in my opinion is well worth it for the 2 action packed hours you get.

Pros
-Darker and creepier than the original game
-More action mixed into the continued story
-Free with purchase of Alan Wake

Overall Score: 9.5/10

A copy of this DLC was provided to the reviewer for reviewing purposes from the publisher.

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