How to Switch Characters in Alan Wake 2

Compared to the first Alan Wake, Alan Wake 2 features a lot of gameplay and visual improvements. And while the core gameplay is similar between the two titles, the biggest difference is that you now have a second protagonist. Besides Alan Wake himself, you will also control Saga Anderson. She is an FBI agent that has arrived to Bright Falls in order to investigate a series of strange murders in the area. Needless to say, she is soon drawn into the terrifying adventures of Alan Wake himself. Since AW2 features dual protagonists, you’re no doubt wondering how to switch characters in Alan Wake 2. In this guide, we’re going to explain everything that you need to know about how this works.

How to Switch Characters in AW2

To begin with, you need to be aware that you won’t have access to this option right at the start of the game. As both characters have their own set of chapters where you exclusively play as them alone, you first need to complete these in order to unlock the option to switch characters in AW2. Specifically, once you complete the “Haunting” chapter, that’s when you will gain this ability. It will take a while to get to this point, so simply play AW2 until you have reached this important spot in the game.

Also, you won’t be able to switch between Alan and Saga whenever you want. The way that this system works (once unlocked) is that you first need to find a Janitor’s Bucket. These special items exist both in the Dark Place, as well as in the “normal” reality. Once you have located a Janitor’s Bucket, hold the interact button to switch between playing as Alan and playing as Saga – and vice versa. Doing this is necessary, as you will need the help of both characters to advance in the game.