Alan Wake 2 anniversary update brings PS5 Pro support and key enhancements to Xbox Series S

Today, the Alan Wake 2 anniversary update was released, which enabled new functionalities for users on different platforms. Support for PS5 Pro is now available and Xbox Series S players will receive a boost in the internal render resolution. These updates will be made as part of the first anniversary celebrations of the game.

Besides implementing platform-oriented enhancements, the update also introduces new accessibility options, allowing players to customize their game experience further. Along with the advanced haptics aimed at enhancing immersion, this patch enables motion sensor controls via the DualSense controller on PC and PS5.

Xbox series S sees resolution upgrades and platform enhancements

A notable enhancement that relates to Alan Wake 2 is directed at the users of the Xbox Series S, who had their internal render resolution boosted to 1505×847 from 1280×720, increasing visual depth and clarity for gamers on this console. Although this may seem negligible in terms of figures, it also answers the complaints some users had with the game’s performance on the lower Xbox Series model.

For PlayStation users, the update officially introduces support for the PS5 Pro which boosts the performance levels and the visuals, although the specific details about how PS5 Pro optimizations will improve gameplay have not been fully disclosed. Gamers using the DualSense controller on PS5 or PC can also use motion sensor controls, which are now optional to assist players further. Also in this update, more haptic feedback options have been added which help people interact with the game in a more responsive and immersive manner.

Alan Wake 2 Expands Accessibility Options for Diverse Playstyles

Apart from specific changes made for certain platforms, Alan Wake 2 now includes many new accessibility features to help players of different styles and capabilities. Additionally, players have the choice of infinite ammo, infinite batteries and immortality making it easy for them to customize the level of challenge in the game. Such qualities are especially helpful for those players who desire to explore the plot or for those who may find the survival horror aspects of the game too intense.

This new update allows users to switch several control options, such as turning a button hold to a button tap, making the game easier for users with mobility impairments. This trend is consistent with the overarching industry trend of enhancing flexibility in gameplay to appeal to a broader player base.

Though there was early information claiming that the Xbox versions of the game’s Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) function were added, such a note does not appear in the patch notes. The developers of Alan Wake 2, namely Remedy Entertainment, have not been clear on whether or not the update includes VRR support. The players might as well wait for further patches or updates for confirmation regarding any of the use of this feature in the future.

New expansion launches alongside anniversary update

This update is released at the same time as the launch of the Lake House expansion which can be accessed through the Alan Wake 2 Deluxe Edition. This extension provides extra content for players who decided to get the more complete edition of the game, but the anniversary update itself is built for all the players irrespective of their version. In this case, users of the standard mode without the Deluxe Edition are still able to experience quite several enhancements and new content.

Alan Wake 2 can currently be played on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. The new anniversary update has been introduced to improve the experience of the players on all these platforms.