Why I'm Finally Dropping My Favorite Alien: Isolation 2 Theory

After months of speculation, one writer says goodbye to the idea that Amanda Ripley would take over in Alien: Isolation 2, embracing Blake as the true protagonist.

Have you ever held onto a theory so tight that you couldn't see the obvious truth right in front of you? That's been me all summer with Alien: Isolation 2. Ever since I got hands-on with the game at Summer Game Fest back in June, I've been convinced that the new protagonist, Blake, was just a decoy. I thought, "No way they're really making us play as someone new. Amanda Ripley has to step in eventually."

But after hearing Creative Assembly talk about Blake's story for the fourth time this summer, I'm finally ready to admit I was wrong. The team isn't hiding a bait-and-switch. They're genuinely invested in Blake's journey, and it's time I let go of my pet theory.

Here's what finally convinced me: during a recent interview at Gamescom, principal environment artist Archie Whitehead told GameSpot, "What I can say is the story focuses on Blake. She's been sent to the colony. If you watch the trailer, you see this, like she's been sent there kind of as penance, like she's made a mistake." That's not the kind of detail you drop for a character who's about to get impaled by a Xenomorph in the first ten minutes.

I had a similar theory about Red Dead Redemption 2's Arthur Morgan back in 2018, and that didn't pan out either—well, not exactly. I guess I just love spotting twists before they happen. But with Alien: Isolation 2, I've been so paranoid about being tricked that I ignored what the developers were literally telling me.

Don't get me wrong—I'm not saying Amanda Ripley won't show up at all. She narrated the demo I played, and I doubt they brought her voice actor in for nothing. Whether it's through audio logs, narration, or even a physical appearance, the daughter of horror's greatest Final Girl will likely play a part. But I'm finally ready to embrace Blake as the star of this story.

I'm actually looking forward to getting to know Blake better. Her life will be in my hands when the game drops in 2027, and I'm ready for the ride. So, what do you think? Were you holding onto a similar theory, or are you excited to step into Blake's shoes? Let me know in the comments!