This is a narrative-driven adventure game developed by Deck Nine and published by Square Enix. It serves as a prequel to the original "Life is Strange" game, which was developed by Dontnod Entertainment. Released in 2017, "Before the Storm" is set three years before the events of the first game and focuses on the character Chloe Price and her relationship with Rachel Amber.

Plot Summary

The game is set in the fictional town of Arcadia Bay, Oregon. Players control Chloe Price, a rebellious 16-year-old who is struggling to cope with the death of her father and the departure of her best friend, Max Caulfield. Chloe forms an unlikely friendship with Rachel Amber, a popular and seemingly perfect girl with her own hidden struggles. Together, they embark on a journey that uncovers secrets about their families and the town, strengthening their bond but also leading to unforeseen consequences.

Gameplay

"Before the Storm" is primarily a graphic adventure game with an emphasis on story and character development. Key gameplay elements include:

  • Dialogue Choices: Players make decisions through dialogue trees, affecting the narrative and relationships with other characters.
  • Backtalk Challenges: A new feature that allows Chloe to use her wit and sarcasm to get desired outcomes in conversations.
  • Exploration and Puzzles: Players explore various environments, collect items, and solve simple puzzles to progress the story.
  • Graffiti: Instead of the photography mechanic in the original game, Chloe can leave graffiti tags in certain locations, reflecting her rebellious nature.

Characters

  • Chloe Price: The main protagonist, known for her blue hair and punk style. She is dealing with personal trauma and a sense of abandonment.
  • Rachel Amber: A bright, charismatic girl who appears to have a perfect life but harbors deep secrets.
  • David Madsen: Chloe's soon-to-be stepfather, a strict and authoritative figure.
  • Joyce Price: Chloe’s mother, who is trying to rebuild her life after her husband's death.

Themes

The game delves into themes such as friendship, loss, family dynamics, and the search for identity. It also explores the impact of personal choices and the complexities of human relationships.

Reception

"Life is Strange: Before the Storm" was generally well-received by critics and players. Praise was directed at its emotional depth, character development, and voice acting, particularly the performances of the main cast. The game was noted for its engaging story and the ability to evoke strong emotional responses, though some criticism was aimed at the lack of the original's supernatural elements and the perceived limitations of the new gameplay mechanics.

Conclusion

"Life is Strange: Before the Storm" offers a poignant, character-driven narrative experience that complements and enriches the story of the original game. It provides fans with a deeper understanding of Chloe Price and Rachel Amber, making it a valuable addition to the "Life is Strange" series.