What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For the clearest story-first introduction to Remedy’s Connected Universe, play Alan Wake Remastered, then Control, then Alan Wake 2. That order gives you the original Alan Wake story before its direct sequel, with Control adding context from the other franchise Remedy identifies as connected. It is a helpful route, not a sequence Remedy says is mandatory.
Recommended Remedy Connected Universe play order
- Alan Wake Remastered: Start with the original Alan Wake story in its remastered form. Remedy’s FAQ describes it as a remaster, not a remake, and says its disc and digital editions have no content differences. Remedy’s Alan Wake FAQ
- Control: Play Remedy’s other established franchise linked to Alan Wake through the Remedy Connected Universe. It introduces the Federal Bureau of Control and its paranatural investigations, providing shared-universe context before Alan Wake 2. Remedy Entertainment’s 2024 annual report
- Alan Wake 2: Continue with the direct sequel after the first game. Playing Control first is useful for the broader connection, but it is an editorial recommendation rather than a stated requirement.
This route is for players who want the connected story context from the beginning. If you are mainly interested in the Bureau, starting with Control is also reasonable.
Why start with Alan Wake Remastered?
It provides the earliest Alan Wake story in a remastered edition. Remedy says the original launched on Xbox 360 in May 2010 and on PC in fall 2012; those dates describe the original releases, not the remaster. Its FAQ confirms a physical edition and says it has the same content as the digital edition. Check current platform availability and retailer stock before choosing a specific version. Remedy’s Alan Wake FAQ
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallDo you need to play Alan Wake before Control?
No. The games are linked as part of Remedy’s Connected Universe, but the suggested order is not a prerequisite. Start with Control if its setting and investigations appeal to you; play Alan Wake Remastered first if you want the original Alan Wake story before moving through the shared-universe context to Alan Wake 2. Remedy’s 2024 annual report identifies Alan Wake and Control as its two established franchises linked through the RCU. Remedy Entertainment’s 2024 annual report
Where FBC: Firebreak fits
FBC: Firebreak is an optional side path, not a required entry in this single-player story order. Remedy’s 2024 annual report describes it as a co-operative multiplayer spin-off of Control, so it suits players looking for co-op rather than another step needed to follow the recommended narrative route. Remedy’s support center lists game overview and update materials. Remedy Support Center
Are Quantum Break and Max Payne part of the RCU?
Remedy’s catalogue includes Quantum Break and Max Payne, but a title appearing in the catalogue does not establish that it is canonically part of the Remedy Connected Universe. The sources cited here identify Alan Wake and Control as the linked established franchises; they do not settle the RCU status of Quantum Break or Max Payne. You do not need to add either to the play order above. Remedy’s games catalogue
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What about CONTROL Resonant?
Remedy’s catalogue listed CONTROL Resonant among upcoming titles when checked for this article, while the company’s investor strategy page announced it for 2026. Release status can change, so check Remedy’s current catalogue for the latest listing rather than assuming a release date or availability. Remedy’s games catalogue · Remedy investor strategy
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
