'Life is Strange: Before the Storm' looks promising at first glance

In 2015, Life is Strange received mixed reviews. While some praised the storyline, others criticised the inconsistencies in it. Published by Square Enix, the episodic game — set in Arcadia Bay, Oregon — revolved around 18-year-old Max Caulfield with an ability to rewind time. Much like Until Dawn and Heavy Rain, the game relied on the players’ actions and the narrative changed accordingly. The game had its kinks, but was still enjoyable enough. 

I got the opportunity to test the prequel, Life is Strange: Before the Storm. More specifically, I played the first episode of the prequel, as it’s the only one currently available. The prequel is set in the same town but this time, the protagonist is Max's best friend, Chloe.

On first glance, it seems like a film about teenage angst with Chloe rebelling at every turn. Unlike its predecessor, this game doesn't involve any time-turning abilities. What it does feature is a “back-talk” ability where Chloe can turn a conversation in her favour with her wisecracks, though a lot of them are overdone. It also makes the storyline a little less credible. For instance, Chloe gains access to an abandoned mill — where her favourite band is playing — by taunting the bouncer about his “feminine looking” motorbike. In an age where most video games are trying to be relatable, this exchange seems absolutely ridiculous. I would have preferred if Chloe got in through a window. 

That said, the episode is fun to play. Though unrelatable, the back-talk ability does result in some great laughs. That said, one needs to play the first game in its entirety in order to understand and enjoy the prequel, especially since it has familiar characters, and those who have played the first game know what fate awaits these characters.

The first game wrapped up the episodes with a well-rounded climax and the prequel does seem promising. But having played the first game, I know how the story ends. So, I'd like to see whether the choices the players make have any substantial effect on the storyline. 

There are kinks in the prequel much like the predecessor, but since only one episode is out, it would be unfair to reach a verdict at this stage. Hopefully, the developers will tone down the improbable social situations arising from the back-talk feature. At the moment, the first episode of Life is Strange: Before the Storm can be treated as a practice level to acquaint yourself with the new ability and the mechanics.