I believe it is the previous generations underrated gem.

So why didAlan Wakenever quite reach the gaming heights it arguably deserves?

Problem was however, this early buzz was generated for the originally intended PC exclusive.

Over the following years the game shifted between a near release to quietly retreating back for additional development.

In response Remedy convinced Microsoft to allow them to port the game to the original games platform of PC.

So, in February 2011, the game was finally released on PC nearly six years after being announced.

Others simply are not aware of any negativities about the system and actually enjoy it.

However, for mainstream gamers it was a problem that provided no solution.

However, there isnt a strong wave of progression.

Changes are superficial and dressed up as major occurrences in the game.

It is a flaw that I will readily hold my hands up too and agree with.

It is the games weakest asset.

Repetition eventually become frustratingly tedious.

Many gamers felt thatAlan Wakewas testament to this feeling.

However, it is the games strengths that make it stand out above the majority of previous generation titles.

The games mechanic of foreshadowing through the collection of written pages was an ingenious inclusion.

It could so easily have blunted any suspense or horror the game wanted to create.

The town of Bright Falls is a cacophony of personality and charm of the Americana.

Barry Wheeler, Alans loyal but chauvinistic, arrogant manager finds heroism where cowardice was previously his speciality.

Radio conversations added depth and a real connection to the town.

At the end of every episode a song plays that captures the spirit of what has just occurred.

Its ambiguous tone keeps the player guessing, constantly asking whether what we are seeing is real or fiction.

A grandiose explanation is offered for the madness, fitting the eerieTwin Peaksatmosphere the game set itself within.

It all served to suck the player in further, never letting go.

The team at Remedy created a game that should serve as a template for ambition, aspiration and progression.

Despite its problemsAlan Wakeis a journey, one that remains worth taking.

However, it survived and the games parting words are indicative of what the game stands testament too.

It is not a lake.

It is an ocean.