Given the success of The Walking Dead, it's a surprise that other developers are only just jumping on the episodic bandwagon. With the output of developer Telltale Games starting to get a teensy bit predictable, though, we're really curious to see French developer DONTNOD's take on the format. We've got a reviewer whizzing through episode one of Life Is Strange right now, but if you can't wait that long, then we've collated a few reviews from around the web for your reading pleasure below.
Destructoid - 8.5/10
For now, we're left with our first glimpse at Arcadia Bay, our initial look into the life of Max. It was a slow, yet well-paced initial chapter that set the table more than anything else. There's no telling where the story will go from here. But, as Chrysalis faded out, an indie song played that felt wonderfully at home in this setting, and served as a warning of things to come. It chanted "We will foresee obstacles, through the blizzard, through the blizzard."
Game Informer - 8.5/10
The next episode will surely define what DONTNOD is out to accomplish, but Life is Strange's introduction is a good look at the characters and dilemmas. It did its job of getting me interested. I have some minor concerns about how original the subject matter will turn out to be, but the focus on realistic problems is refreshing and the care put into Maxine's world and the relationship-building holds plenty of promise.
Metro - 8/10
A wonderfully assured first episode, in what has the potential to outdo both Telltale Games and Quantic Dream in terms of successful video game storytelling.
GameSpot - 7/10
Life is Strange sets the stage for later conflict, foreshadowing the storm to come and informing you of a young local woman gone missing. At the same time, the game makes everyone look like a guilty party. The rich frat boy with a gun, the smug school administrator, the stepdad in need of anger management skills – these and other characters have plenty to hide, though it's impossible to guess what all their secrets might be. The looming tornado and the inconsistent time mechanic seem almost unnecessary as a result, for Life is Strange's most important drama is the one developing in Max's own mind.
Will you be taking a trip to Arcadia Bay this weekend, or do you think that the jury's still out on this episodic escapade? Turn back time in the comments section below.
Comments 17
Been interested in this since it was announced, but these are some strong reviews. "A wonderfully assured first episode, in what has the potential to outdo both Telltale Games and Quantic Dream in terms of successful video game storytelling."
Sold.
I'll be picking up the season pass when it's done or if it's on significant offer between now and then if reviews keep up, as someone that reads 30+ comics a month, watches 10+ tv shows a week and goes to the cinema at least once a week on top of all that I don't like to leave it 6 weeks between 90 minute episodes to ensure the story remains fresh in my memory.
90-120 minutes of entertainment just isn't enough to sustain me for another 6 weeks really.
I'm definitely going to be dipping into this at the weekend I think. PS Lifestyle also had a LOT of good things to say about it, and I've not seen any overly negative feedback so far. Looks like my hardest decision this weekend won't be what to buy, just what to play - this, Infamous or Grim Fandango?!
@SteveButler2210 Haha, I know that feeling!
I'll wait for the complete season retail edition to be released if ever, then I'll pop it on the rental list.
Well, I'll certainly buy this one, but isn't up on PSN, yet...
@ferrers405 I managed to download if off psn in the uk. But had to purchase it via the mobile app as psn on my ps4 would not let me buy it for some strange reason
Im interested. Ill keep this on the radar til i hear more.
@PoisonDwarf ...would you say it's a "Life is Strange" reason?
There's also a demo available if people are not aware and want to try it out. I'm downloading it now so I can't say how much is in it yet.
I am going to buy the season pass whenever it shows up on the US PSN today. Not there yet as of 9:50 am EST.
@PoisonDwarf yeah, there's a problem with the game on the US store, it don't show to buy, Life is Strange Twitter already said they're "investigating the problem".
I liked Remember Me a lot, so I'll get it.
i was going to get this anyway but its very reassuring to read these reviews. i cant wait, but i may end up waiting until all the eps. are out as i love long gaming sessions when it comes to story-centric games.
I'd like to buy all the episodes in one package, preferably a physical copy but even digital would be ok
@Jonny
"90-120 minutes of entertainment just isn't enough to sustain me for another 6 weeks really."
But 15-30 is enough to sustain you for 4? Just kidding you, but honestly if you can keep up with monthly comics I don't see how this is any different.
@JaxonH @Bad-MuthaAdebisi Same here, though I'll probably wait 1-2 years for the complete retail package to become $25 New or cheaper on Amazon.
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