Life is Strange is making its heavily anticipated return on September 10, and many are eager to see what Deck Nine has in store. To celebrate the return of one of the most beloved episodic adventure games, we’re taking a look at why fans are so excited, and why you should be too!
SUPERNATURAL POWERS IN GAMEPLAY
The first Life is Strange game originally launched in 2015, and it brought a compelling story about the realities of supernatural powers. Max Caulfield, the original protagonist of Life is Strange, has the ability to reverse time. Later, it’s discovered that this expands beyond just in-the-moment manipulation, Max can go back years.
A lot of the gameplay relies on utilising her powers, meaning you can travel back in time to retry dialogue options, change pivotal events, or interact with in-game options you may have missed. This element became a particularly enjoyable part of the game to many fans.
The second instalment of Life is Strange revolved around the bond of two siblings. Sean Diaz must teach his younger brother, Daniel, who has discovered his powers of telekinesis, how and when to use his abilities.
Life is Strange: True Colors will follow Alex Chen and her powers of empathy. She can manipulate and feel other people’s emotions. We’re excited to see just how these powers can be used in game!
COMPLEX THEMES
Life is Strange has never hesitated when it comes to delving into serious themes. It discusses the less-than-fortunate parts of teenage lives and culture, as well as dark themes about politics, racism, and issues of assault. The main appeal of Life is Strange is that it feels like a turbulent look at the hardest parts of growing into adulthood and tackles these issues without hesitation.
The plot of each game also relies on underlying mysteries that the main character must work to solve. These mysteries are often very dark truths that have a strong effect on player experience. These elements add to the true and authentic aura that Life is Strange is known and enjoyed for.
True Colors will continue these serious themes by following Alex as she uncovers the suspicious death of her brother, chasing truths through the seemingly idyllic town of Haven Springs.
THOUGHTFULLY CONSTRUCTED SOUNDTRACK AND AMBIENCE
Life is Strange is visually stunning. We’re not specifically focusing on graphics when we say that, though. Life is Strange takes place across various gorgeous American states. The specific efforts put into the overall ambience and scenery is remarkably unique.
The soundtrack is always memorable, usually relying on niche style indie music, with Life is Strange: Before the Storm having a specifically catered soundtrack made by indie band, Daughter. In-game, you can choose to have your character sit and simply enjoy the aura of their location while listening to its beautiful soundtrack.
True Colors’ Haven Springs appears to be one of the most stunning locations in Life is Strange yet! Singer-songwriter mxmtoon will be performing Alex’s singing voice, and expectations are high for the game’s soundtrack.
The soundtrack for True Colors was also written by Aussie duo Angus & Julia Stone!
DIVERSE CHARACTERS
Life is Strange has always made same-sex romance a viable option for its players. Max and Chloe, the two main characters of the first game, are widely celebrated as symbols of queer romance in video games, made as close to canon as you can get in a game with multiple love interests via the Titan comic book series.
The game also explores the experiences of minorities in the United States through the lens of Sean and Daniel, sons of a Mexican immigrant, whose struggles are boldly represented. Sean also has same-sex relationships as a gameplay option.
True Colors is set to further expand Life is Strange‘s diverse cast of characters with Alex, an Asian-American who has two romantic options, one of whom is also a woman.
DIARY ENTRIES THAT TELL ALL
Life is Strange has further detail in diary entries, which are written throughout the game’s events. These entries give further insight into the characters’ thoughts, sometimes beyond what a player would ever know if they hadn’t taken the time to look.
These details can also supply character’s thoughts on other non-player characters. Reading these diary entries are integral parts to understanding who you’re playing as. The visual elements of these diaries, sketches and overall design choices, express the personality of each character. Max utilises photos throughout, while Sean sketches beautiful art that is a pleasure to peek at.
It hasn’t been confirmed if these diary entries will be seen in True Colors, but it’s certainly an element many would love to see.
Fans have longed for Life is Strange: True Colors since its announcement earlier this year. With the game soon set to launch, we are hoping these core elements of previous Life is Strange games make a return.
