Alan Wake 2 has just released a few days ago, and I am currently reviewing it! But before you can fully enjoy the game yourself, it's highly recommended to go through at least a quick recap from the first game, as the sequel is directly connected to its predecessor's plot.
Here are a few suggestions for you to consider before playing Alan Wake 2:
While it might not be the ideal choice, watching a recap is still a viable way to catch up on the story so far. A video can provide a brief yet comprehensive overview of the events that transpired in the original game.
If you're a fan of Fortnite, this is a great way to get a taste of what Alan Wake has to offer. An official custom map created by Epic Games immerses you in a somewhat similar atmosphere to the original game. I recommend it even to those who may not be well-versed in the Alan Wake lore.
Of course, the best approach would be to play the original game. Remedy released a remaster of it in 2021, and it comes highly recommended!