Life is Strange: Double Exposure Review – A Bold Yet Flawed Return to Arcadia Bay

Life is Strange: Double Exposure, the latest installment in the Life is Strange series, has garnered mixed reviews for its attempt to revisit and expand the narrative of its beloved protagonist, Max Caulfield. The game, developed by Deck Nine, picks up many years after the events of the original Life is Strange, with Max now in her late twenties and working as a photographer and artist-in-residence at Caledon University in Vermont.

The game’s narrative is a complex blend of the ordinary and the supernatural, a hallmark of the series. Max, still grappling with the trauma of her past, must navigate a new set of challenges and relationships while her time-traveling powers resurface. The story attempts to unite the two endings of the original game, allowing Max to forge a new path without revisiting the same impossible choices that defined her earlier journey.

One of the standout aspects of Double Exposure is its environmental exploration and the return of Max’s supernatural powers. Players can interact with everyday objects and engage in dialogue choices that influence the story, a mechanic that has been praised for its consistency with the series’ formula. However, the game’s scope is limited compared to previous installments, with fewer locations to explore.

The game has been criticized for its writing, which some reviewers have found to be overly corny and inconsistent. Characters like Safi and Vinh have been noted for their cringe-worthy lines, and the plot is marred by inconsistencies and plot holes. Despite this, the game still manages to deliver emotionally touching moments, particularly in its later chapters.

Fans of the series have been divided on the game’s decision to move on from the Max and Chloe storyline, with some feeling that the new narrative disrespects the established lore and alienates long-time fans. However, others appreciate the attempt to explore new themes and characters, even if it means leaving behind some of the emotional depth of the original story.

Technically, the game has also faced some issues, including visual and audio glitches, which have been a point of frustration for some players. Despite these flaws, the game’s bold direction for the future of the franchise is likely to spark significant debate among fans.