Life is Strange (2015): The Review

Score: 8 out of 10

Overview: "Life is Strange is a heartfelt narrative-driven adventure that explores themes of friendship, love, and loss, all wrapped in a supernatural mystery. Developed by Don't Nod Entertainment, this episodic game follows Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she can rewind time. As Max navigates the trials of high school and unravels a larger conspiracy, the choices players make shape the course of the story and its emotional impact. While some elements feel uneven, the game’s compelling characters and poignant storytelling make it an unforgettable journey."

The Positives

• Max’s ability to rewind time adds a unique twist to the choice-based gameplay, allowing players to experiment with decisions and see immediate consequences while still grappling with their moral weight;
• The cast, led by Max and her estranged best friend Chloe, feels authentic and multidimensional. Their evolving relationship serves as the emotional core of the story, while supporting characters like Kate and Victoria add layers of drama and complexity;
• Life is Strange shines in its ability to tackle mature themes like mental health, bullying, and grief with sensitivity and nuance. The game doesn’t shy away from tough subjects, making its narrative feel impactful and meaningful;
• The game’s hand-painted art style and soft, pastel color palette create a warm, dreamlike aesthetic that contrasts with the darker elements of the story;
• The game’s indie-folk soundtrack perfectly captures its coming-of-age vibe, with tracks by artists like Syd Matters and José González adding emotional depth to key moments;
• Decisions feel weighty, with ripple effects that carry through the episodes. The game’s branching paths make each player’s experience unique, and the emotional stakes are heightened by the permanence of many outcomes;
• The underlying mystery surrounding Arcadia Bay and the disappearance of Rachel Amber keeps players invested, offering layers of intrigue that build up to a gripping finale.

The Negatives

• While the game aims for realism, some of the dialogue feels awkward or overly reliant on “teen slang,” which can detract from immersion;
• Certain sections, particularly in the middle episodes, feel slow or padded, with lengthy conversations or repetitive fetch quests that disrupt the story’s momentum;
• While the environments are richly detailed, the game’s linear structure means exploration is often restricted, with few opportunities for meaningful interaction beyond the main objectives;
• The game occasionally suffers from stiff animations and noticeable lip-sync issues, which can pull players out of emotional moments;
• Despite the game’s emphasis on choices and consequences, the story ultimately boils down to a binary decision at the end, which may leave some players feeling their earlier choices were less impactful.

The Experience

Life is Strange is a deeply personal and emotionally resonant game that leaves a lasting impression. Its blend of heartfelt storytelling, memorable characters, and unique gameplay mechanics creates an immersive experience, even if some technical and narrative flaws hold it back from perfection.
For those who value character-driven narratives and moral dilemmas, Life is Strange offers a touching and thought-provoking adventure that resonates long after the credits roll. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling in gaming and a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship.