Side by side
Alan Wake 2 vs SOMA
Alan Wake 2
42 positive (72%) · 12 mixed (21%) · 4 negative (7%)
Trust + time weighted: +68%
AI summary — not a quote
Alan Wake 2 is widely celebrated as a visual and narrative masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling in gaming. While its atmosphere, artistic direction, and dual-protagonist structure are highly praised, some players find the combat mechanics clunky and certain puzzle elements obtuse.
Pros
- Stunning, 'next-gen' graphics and distinct visual fidelity
- Innovative and immersive narrative that evolves traditional storytelling
- Exceptional atmosphere and 'artistic' horror vibe
- Engaging dual-protagonist system featuring Saga Anderson and Alan Wake
Cons
- Combat can feel slow, clunky, or less refined than the narrative
- Puzzles can occasionally devolve into trial-and-error or feel vague
- Quality-of-life issues with map markers and points of interest not clearing
- PC version is restricted to the Epic Games Store
Top excerpts
It would however be alluded to in Alan Wake 2 as the protagonist's actor Shawn Ashmore would appear as a side character by the name of Tim Breaker
Parent context: I hated the first part. I could not get into it and the gameplay really sucked. That’s what’s actually keeping me from buying part 2. Reply: It’s nothing like the first game. If you enjoy stuff like Last of Us, Silent Hill, RE Village, you will probably enjoy the sequel.
The sequel is a masterpiece in every way, story, gameplay, graphics, I can’t recommend it enough.
after finishing Alan Wake 2 and all it's DLC i've been thinking of launchin this sucker again and blast everyone with mouse and keyboard at stupid framerates
The back 3rd of the game was spectacular.
SOMA
26 positive (70%) · 6 mixed (16%) · 5 negative (14%)
Trust + time weighted: +58%
AI summary — not a quote
SOMA is highly regarded as a landmark in psychological horror, praised almost universally for its profound narrative exploration of consciousness and human identity. While its atmosphere, sound design, and voice acting are considered top-tier, the actual gameplay mechanics—specifically stealth and monster encounters—are frequently described as the weakest elements, leading some to view it more as an interactive story or walking simulator than a traditional game.
Pros
- Deeply thought-provoking story and philosophical themes that resonate long after completion.
- Masterful atmosphere and environmental design, particularly the 'crushing' dread of underwater settings.
- Exceptional voice acting and sound design that enhance immersion.
- Memorable and impactful ending that is widely considered a highlight of the medium.
Cons
- Stealth mechanics can feel clunky and sometimes clash with the game's narrative pacing.
- Monster encounters are often viewed as predictable or annoying 'walking puzzles' rather than genuine threats.
- Death and reloading can break the immersion and atmospheric tension.
- Limited gameplay depth; some players find the 'walking simulator' style too light on interaction.
Top excerpts
I liked it, but honestly, it wasn’t much of a game, more like an interactive story. It was really thought provoking and immersive, though
SOMA has been on my list for a while now, and all the reasons I saw it recommended were true: incredible psychological horror atmosphere, gripping story that gradually unfolds with twists and turns, gorgeous environments, etc.
My only negative experience was with the stealth gameplay. It wasn't that it was *bad*, it just felt to me like it didn't suit the mood of the game and resetting from dying just broke the immersion for me in having to go back and replay a section to get to where I died.
I really loved Soma and indeed while not the most original story, for me it is one that I almost remember the most from my 40 gears of gaming.
I thought SOMA was a cool story but the gameplay is really not for me.