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The sequel will retail for $59.99 on consoles and $49.99 on PC.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

May 25, 2023

2 Min Read
A screenshot from Alan Wake II showing an FBI agent entering a dark forest

Remedy says Alan Wake 2 will be a digital-only release so it can keep pricing down.

The studio shared more details about the sequel following the debut of a gameplay reveal trailer that featured in last night's PlayStation Showcase, and explained there are currently no plans to release a physical version of the horror title.

It's a notable move, largely because of the rationale provided by the Finnish studio. Remedy said that targeting a digital-only release makes sense because "a large number of players have shifted to digital only. You can buy a Sony PlayStation 5 without a disc drive and Microsoft’s Xbox Series S is a digital only console. It is not uncommon to release modern games as digital-only."

It also claims that ditching the disc "helps keep the price of the game at $59.99 / €59.99 and the PC version at $49.99 / €49.99." 

Remedy didn't explain why Alan Wake 2 will be cheaper on PC, but it's worth noting the sequel is being published by Epic Games and will be exclusive to the Epic Games Store (on PC) as a result.

In addition, the studio said it's reluctant to "ship a disc product and have it require a download for the game," pointing out "we do not think this would make for a great experience either."

There's been some sticker shock in response to companies slapping $70 RRPs on certain releases, with Nintendo launching The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom at that price point in the United States, while both Microsoft and Sony have also outlined plans to do the same with a number of Xbox and PlayStation first-party titles.

Other publishers like Sega and Ubisoft have also suggested they'll soon be raising the price of "big games" to $70.

About the Author(s)

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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