Life Is Strange PS4 PS3 PlayStation Reviews

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.