The 2012 edition of Xbox LIVE’s House Party comes to a screeching halt with the release of Alan Wake’s American Nightmare as Remedy’s latest psychological action thriller game scares all of the guests out of the place with its creepy anecdotes and moody disposition.

Then, one by one, the guests return when they discover that Alan Wake’s American Nightmare is actually just misunderstood and beneath the horrifying exterior lies an excellent heart of gold.

Then Mr. Scratch arrives on the scene and all hell breaks loose. We hope the House Party returns next week, on schedule.

What can we really expect from Alan Wake’s American Nightmare, a download-only title available via Xbox LIVE Marketplace today? Here’s some more info accompanied by the launch trailer and a selection of screenshots:

Alan Wake’s American Nightmare

• Price: 1200 MS Points
• File Size: 1.33 GB

“In Alan Wake’s American Nightmare, Wake finds himself stuck in an altered reality filled with dangerous shadows as he pursues his evil double, Mr. Scratch towards the town of Night Springs. Wake must learn to control reality itself and unravel the secret to Scratch’s demise.

“In addition to the expertly crafted single player campaign, the game also includes a heart pounding action arcade mode called “Fight till Dawn” where Wake must battle and survive a full night of enemy onslaughts while racking up a high score.”

Alan Wake’s American Nightmare - Launch Trailer