Alan Wake 2 will be included in PS Plus Essential this October
PlayStation has officially confirmed that Alan Wake 2, one of the most acclaimed releases of recent years, will be included in PS Plus Essential’s October 2025 lineup. The news has generated excitement, since titles of this caliber are usually reserved for the higher tiers (Extra or Premium).
This decision boosts the value of the base subscription and allows thousands of players to dive into Remedy Entertainment’s dark, narrative-driven universe at no extra cost.
What is Alan Wake 2?
For those unfamiliar, Alan Wake 2 is the direct sequel to the 2010 classic. Developed by Remedy Entertainment, it blends psychological thriller, survival horror, and narrative action, delivering one of the most unique experiences on the market.
The story continues with Alan Wake trapped in a nightmare dimension, while new characters attempt to unravel the mysteries surrounding his fate. With its atmosphere, next-gen visuals, and gripping script, it has been praised as one of the most immersive games of the past decade.
Why it matters for PS Plus Essential
Including Alan Wake 2 in PS Plus Essential offers several advantages:
- Free access: all Essential subscribers can download and play it at no extra charge.
- New audience exposure: players who missed it at launch now have the perfect opportunity to try it.
- Stronger value for Essential: until now, recent AAA titles were typically included in Extra or Premium.
- Progress retention: progress, trophies, and saves remain intact even if players later purchase the game.
When will it be available?
While Sony hasn’t specified the exact date, it’s expected to arrive during the first week of October, in line with the usual PS Plus Essential schedule.
A strategic move from Sony
Alan Wake 2’s inclusion in PS Plus Essential isn’t just a gift for gamers—it’s also a strategic move. Sony is clearly aiming to strengthen its base subscription tier at a time when competition in the gaming subscription space is intense.
Microsoft’s Game Pass has set a standard by providing big titles in its lower tiers. With this step, PlayStation seems to be aligning with a similar philosophy.
Community reactions
The community has responded positively across forums and social media. Players who couldn’t afford Alan Wake 2 at launch are thrilled, while Remedy fans are excited that the game may get a second wave of popularity with a broader audience.
Still, some argue that Sony will now face higher expectations: if Essential can deliver Alan Wake 2, players will want the same level of quality in future lineups.
Conclusion
The confirmation that Alan Wake 2 is joining PS Plus Essential in October 2025 is a landmark moment for the service. With its storytelling, atmosphere, and gameplay, Sony is offering a top-tier title to its base subscribers.
Whether this is a one-time surprise or the start of a new trend, one thing is certain: October will be an unforgettable month for PlayStation fans.
