WithLife is Strange: Double Exposureon the horizon, now is the perfect time to reflect on the unwritten rules that define the series. Since the first episode’s release in 2015, theLife is Strangefranchise has become a staple of the choice-driven adventure genre. Each installment introduces a unique story while maintaining the depth and moral complexity that have become hallmarks of the series, with the most recent being 2021’sLife is Strange: True Colors.
The franchise currently boasts six installments, which means a general set of rules for the franchise may not be able to be extremely specific. After all, only two games focus on either Max Caulfield or Chloe Price, though this number will rise with therelease ofLife is Strange: Double Exposureon October 29. Regardless, players should keep a few guidelines in mind as they venture into the emotionally charged world ofLife is Strange.
The Play Order of Life is Strange Matters
While playing theLife is Strangegames in release order ensures the story unfolds as originally intended, the line-up can be shifted for an optimal narrative experience. Therefore, the suggested play order is as follows:
AlthoughBefore the Storm is set prior to the events of Life is Strange, players may find it more immersive to experience Arcadia Bay and its vibrant characters by starting with Max’s story in the originalLife is Strange. After playing the first two games and subsequent DLC, the later installments are mostly standalone, though they often include ties to Arcadia Bay and its characters. ForLife is Strange 2, it is recommended to complete the opening episode, followed byThe Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit, which features a few familiar faces, before continuing with the rest ofLife is Strange 2. Similarly, players could opt to playDouble Exposure’s DLC before delving into the base game.
Each main character inLife is Strangehas their own version of a journal. While reading through them isn’t necessary for completing the game, they are beneficial for providing valuable insights into the protagonist’s thoughts and motivations. For instance, Max writes in her diary that her parents have been telling her on a loop that she has “all the time in the world,” which could be an indirect way of referencingMax Caulfield’s supernatural powers.
Max’s diary inLife is Strangecontains 73 pages in total.
Additionally, on the previous page, Max mentions that she borrowed a copy ofThe October Countryby Ray Bradbury. If players do a little research, they’ll find that the book is a collection of macabre short stories that explore the horrors and inner demons within humanity. These themes are closely mirrored by those found in the game.
Explore As Much As Possible
As a general guideline, players should explore every nook and cranny while talking to as many people as possible. Interacting with objects and the surrounding environment can offer valuable context that aids in later decisions. In some areas, scenes may even change, so it’s beneficial to revisit locations to check for any updates. Though there are hundreds of details that can be easily missed, some can even foreshadow upcoming events, such as the altered graffiti onChloe Price and Rachel Amber’s hideoutin Episode 2.
For characters without Temporal Rewind like Max, engaging with their environment becomes essential for finding the “right” answers when needed. To illustrate, since Chloe doesn’t have supernatural powers, her forte comes from her ability to toy with others via dialogue. Notably, certain options inChloe’s Backtalk challengescan only be unlocked by interacting with specific objects.
Avoid Reading Guides
Unless stuck on a difficult puzzle or challenging section, players reading walkthroughs or guides may encounter spoilers that could spoil key moments. As such, the most effective way to step into the world ofLife is Strangeis to have as little knowledge as possible. Additionally, if players wish to explore alternate endings based onchoices made inLife is Strange, it is advisable to do so only after completing their first playthrough.
Use Collectible Mode
EveryLife is Strangegame includes “Collectible Mode,“a feature that was introduced with the first game. This option is usually located in a separate menu or tab, which may not be immediately apparent to players. This feature is incredibly beneficial for video game completionists, as it allows them to revisit the game and not worry about missing any achievements during their playthrough. Additionally, it offers a chance to explore the outcomes of different choices without impacting any of the initial decisions.
Life is Strange: Double Exposure
WHERE TO PLAY
Max Caulfield, photographer-in-residence at the prestigious Caledon University, discovers her closest new friend, Safi, dead in the snow.Murdered.To save her, Max tries to Rewind time – a power she’s not used in years… instead, Max opens the way to a parallel timeline where Safi is still alive, and still in danger!Max realizes the killer will soon strike again – in both versions of reality.With her new power to Shift between two timelines – can Max solve and prevent the same murder?ORDINARY GIRL, EXTRAORDINARY POWERMax is thrust into a thrilling supernatural murder mystery – more dangerous than ever before!TRAVERSE TWO TIMELINESForge allies and pursue suspects across two versions of reality, shaping both timelines through unforgettable choices.RACE AGAINST TIMEA relentless detective has Max in his sights, and Safi’s killer grows closer with every clue uncovered. Can Max survive long enough – to do the impossible?DECIDE THE FATE OF CALEDONExplore two versions of a vivid winter campus, each packed with clues, secrets, and tough decisions.
