Life is Strange Series: A Comprehensive Guide & Review

Introduction to Life is Strange Series

The Life is Strange series has carved a niche for itself within the adventure genre of video games, blending elements of mystery, drama, and supernatural phenomena. Developed by Dontnod Entertainment and published by Square Enix, the series is well-regarded for its characterization, complex narrative, and impactful choices. This comprehensive guide and review will delve into the heart of the series, exploring its gameplay, storytelling methods, and why it continues to resonate with a diverse audience.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay in the Life is Strange series is primarily based on choice and consequence, woven into a point-and-click adventure framework. Players are often confronted with moral dilemmas and decisions that significantly impact the story’s direction.

Core Features

• Time manipulation mechanics (specific to Life is Strange and Before the Storm)
• Branching dialogue options
• Puzzle-solving elements
• Exploration of detailed environments

Impact of Choices

The series’ most lauded aspect is how players’ choices ripple through the narrative, affecting characters’ fates and the story’s outcome. This mechanic is not just about altering the end but also changes character dynamics and player experience throughout the game.

Storyline and Settings

The narrative arc of the Life is Strange series is remarkable for its emotional depth, tackling themes such as friendship, sacrifice, and destiny. Each entry in the series takes place in a meticulously crafted setting that enriches the storytelling experience.

Life is Strange (2015)

Set in the fictional town of Arcadia Bay, Oregon, the story revolves around Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she can rewind time. As she reunites with her childhood friend Chloe Price, they begin to uncover the dark secrets of their seemingly tranquil town.

Before the Storm (2017)

A prequel to the original, focusing on Chloe Price’s life and her relationship with Rachel Amber, offering a deeper insight into the backstory of the characters and setting up events that connect to the original game.

Other Titles

Following titles like Life is Strange 2 and Life is Strange: True Colors continue to explore new characters, themes, and supernatural elements, each adding their own unique flavor to the series while maintaining the essence of choice-driven narrative.

Characters

The Life is Strange series is celebrated for its well-rounded and relatable characters, each bringing their distinct personality, backstory, and growth throughout the games.

Main Characters

• Max Caulfield – A shy and compassionate photography student with the power to rewind time.
• Chloe Price – Max’s rebellious best friend, dealing with her personal demons and family issues.
• Rachel Amber – A popular student with a mysterious past, playing a central role in Before the Storm.
• Sean and Daniel Diaz – The protagonists of Life is Strange 2, brothers on the run after a tragic incident, with Daniel manifesting mysterious powers.

Overall Review

The Life is Strange series stands out as a crowning achievement in narrative-driven gaming. It pushes the envelope in interactive storytelling, immersing players in the lives of its characters and forcing them to grapple with the consequences of their choices. The blend of realistic issues with elements of supernatural creates a unique, engaging experience that resonates on a deeply personal level. While certain gameplay mechanics might feel limited to fans of more action-oriented titles, the series’ strength lies in its ability to weave complex narratives, fully realized environments, and emotionally charged stories, making it a must-play for enthusiasts of the genre.