1 person found this review helpful
Recommended
0.0 hrs last two weeks / 12.9 hrs on record
Posted: Nov 3, 2024 @ 8:38am

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is a remarkable sequel that builds upon the strengths of the original.
With its innovative storyline, captivating characters, and stunning visuals, it sets a new standard for the series.
It's the best LIS sequel...period!

After the events of the original Life is Strange, which released back in 2015, Max Caulfield, now an adult, has taken up a new role as artist-in-residence at Caledon University. However, a tragic event shatters her newfound peace: the untimely death of her dear friend, Safi. This loss triggers a strange new ability within Max, allowing her to leap between two parallel timelines – one where Safi is alive, and another where she has perished. As Max, you must navigate these alternate realities, solving Safi's murder in one timeline while desperately trying to prevent it from happening in the other.

The opening chapter of the game presents a pivotal choice: players can reveal Chloe's fate as either a tragic loss or a painful separation, mirroring their decision in the original game (Save Arcadia Bay or Save Chloe). This early choice quickly sparked online debate, with some fans expressing strong disapproval of the idea that Max would ever choose to end her relationship with Chloe. While such reactions are understandable but it's important to recognize that the game handles (especially in later chapters) this delicate matter with sensitivity and respect.

The story's power lies in its exploration of loss, grief, and the enduring nature of love, even in the face of adversity.

Beyond the initial choice, the game continues to reference the events of the first game, demonstrating that the impact of Arcadia Bay's past cannot be easily dismissed. As the narrative unfolds, players will discover how these choices shape the present and future of the characters they care about.


That story deals with a number of seriously heavy topics. Well, it's a Life is Strange game after all!
Everything from divorce to anxiety to the different ways we grieve over the loss of a loved one is covered here in a way that's just felt real.

Double Exposure's chapters, clocking in at around two hours each, offer a more concise gaming experience compared to some previous Life is Strange titles. This shorter format is a welcome change, as it eliminates the need for filler content or unnecessary padding. While a few minor plot points might require some extra attention, such as exploring Max's phone, the core narrative remains clear and focused. Double Exposure's respectful approach to the player's time is refreshing, delivering a tight, engaging story without sacrificing quality.

What really sells Double Exposure’s writing and story is its absolutely incredible performances and character animations. Amazing performance by Hannah Telle (Max). Chapter 4 is probably the best chapter EVER for performances and for the story! While this has always been a strength of the series, this game takes it to new heights with subtle facial expressions that convey emotions without words.

Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Double Exposure is stunning. Stunning but will push your computer to the limits. Sadly, no DLSS or FSR option available to run the game on lower-end hardware.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is a triumph. Deck Nine has matured with its audience, delivering another captivating narrative that balances larger-than-life storytelling with the intricate complexities of adulthood.

And it's not over, Max Caufield will be back for more...
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