How long is Alan Wake 2?

How long is Alan Wake 2?
(Image credit: Remedy)

If you want to know how long Alan Wake 2 is, the length is going to vary based on how you play the game, whether you're rapidly blasting through shadow monsters or plodding across Bright Falls. Alan Wake 2 features a semi-open world structure with the option to jump between two linear story branches, both with multiple maps that expand with each chapter that are also filled with all sorts of collectibles. Here's what you need to know about how long it takes to complete Alan Wake 2.

How long to beat Alan Wake 2?

Alan Wake 2 length

(Image credit: Remedy)

Having spent a lot of time with the game, here's how long it should take you to beat Alan Wake 2 by varying playstyles: 

  • Just the story: 18-20 hours 
  • Standard playthrough: 20-24 hours
  • Completionist: 28-30 hours
  • Standard playthrough and New Game Plus: 40+ hours

I completed the game to finish my Alan Wake 2 review and I was honestly a little surprised by just how long it took to beat. If you're shooting for a full completionist run, looking to collect all things like the hidden Nursery Rhyme locations in Alan Wake 2, then you can expect the game to easily push towards the 30 hour mark. 

The game's length also varies based on which of the Alan Wake 2 difficulty modes you pick, with higher difficulties adding extra time. If you're up for a serious challenge and for maximum game completion, you'll need to complete the game a second time in Alan Wake 2 New Game Plus mode which includes a new ending.

I will say, I personally think it's well worth taking your time with Alan Wake 2. Collectibles aren't just there for achievement hunters either, with all of the hidden Alan Wake 2 lunch boxes and mysterious Words of Power in Alan Wake 2 acting as the keys to improving your survivability. It's how you upgrade all of the Alan Wake 2 weapons that Saga can wield, and how you increase the stopping power of Alan in the Dark Place. Taking the time to really explore is also how you get the finer details of the story before you reach closing stage of the game with missions like the Alan Wake 2 come up with a new plan objective that start to funnel you into the end game. 

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Josh West
UK Managing Editor, GamesRadar+

Josh West is the UK Managing Editor of GamesRadar+. He has over 10 years experience in online and print journalism, and holds a BA (Hons) in Journalism and Feature Writing. Prior to starting his current position, Josh has served as GR+'s Features Editor and Deputy Editor of games™ magazine, and has freelanced for numerous publications including 3D Artist, Edge magazine, iCreate, Metal Hammer, Play, Retro Gamer, and SFX. Additionally, he has appeared on the BBC and ITV to provide expert comment, written for Scholastic books, edited a book for Hachette, and worked as the Assistant Producer of the Future Games Show. In his spare time, Josh likes to play bass guitar and video games. Years ago, he was in a few movies and TV shows that you've definitely seen but will never be able to spot him in.