Life is Strange: Before the Storm

 PC
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 626 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 460 out of 626
  2. Mixed: 111 out of 626
  3. Negative: 55 out of 626

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  1. Ciocolici
    Sep 7, 2023
    9
    "Life is Strange: Before the Storm" defies the misconception that Unity games are ugly or basic in terms of gameplay. Deck Nine has proven this with their remarkable work on this game. While some characters may share similar animations, the overall visuals are a huge improvement compared to the first game.

    The game successfully captures the essence of "Life is Strange," and the    "Life is Strange: Before the Storm" defies the misconception that Unity games are ugly or basic in terms of gameplay. Deck Nine has proven this with their remarkable work on this game. While some characters may share similar animations, the overall visuals are a huge improvement compared to the first game.

    The game successfully captures the essence of "Life is Strange," and the outstanding OST adds to the familiar feeling. Playing as Chloe is an absolute delight, and I'm grateful to the developers for allowing us to step into her shoes.

    In terms of gameplay, the character hubs and mechanics are well-designed, reminiscent of the first game. However, I must admit that I did miss the rewind mechanic. The new gameplay mechanic introduced for Chloe lacks the appeal of her lacking superpowers.

    While "Life is Strange: Before the Storm" may not reach the same level of the masterpiece that is the original game, it doesn't mean it's bad. It shines in its own right, despite being a side-story prologue. The emotional journey of Chloe is both sad and heartwarming, providing a captivating experience throughout.

    As someone who cherished every moment of this game, I am beyond satisfied with the overall experience. Deck Nine managed to turn Chloe's dreams into a reality, crafting a compelling and touching story.

    However, I must warn you, the last scene after the credits took an emotional toll on me. Kudos to Deck Nine for breaking my heart with that impactful ending.    … Expand
  2. Krazee8
    Jul 18, 2023
    10
    Amazing ...................................................................
  3. clem666
    Apr 22, 2023
    8
    Terrific experience just as the first opus is. They succeeded in offering us something different but with the main features that makes the core of the franchise. Here, no more time travelling, just the rigorous consequences of the choices you have made.
    Amazing soundscape and soundtrack based on 'Music Before the Storm' from the Daughter band, and some other miscellaneous artists. Special    Terrific experience just as the first opus is. They succeeded in offering us something different but with the main features that makes the core of the franchise. Here, no more time travelling, just the rigorous consequences of the choices you have made.
    Amazing soundscape and soundtrack based on 'Music Before the Storm' from the Daughter band, and some other miscellaneous artists. Special thanks for Wolf Alice's apparition in a time when they were far less popular than now. The music really is appropriate to the scenes in the game and never feels too much. The game lets you the ability to have some moments of contemplation lulled by a soft music. Furthermore, the pace is enhanced by spaces of silence or graphic scenes that bring real depth to the whole. These were some of the best moments in my opinion.
    I liked the 'fight by provocation option' available in some conversations, even if the translation makes it a bit more difficult to succeed.
    The story is quite interesting, even if sometimes it feels like we have to consciously make pointless or foolish choices. In addition to that, some decision absolutely doesn't fit in the expected consequences, which makes the playtrough vaguely unpredictable. On the other hand there is no doubt that we embody teenagers in their worst phases of opposition, constant questioning and in a way rebellious and extreme behaviors. These behaviors, however, do not make it difficult to see where the story is going.
    I especially enjoyed the number of protagonists we can interact with, and the small things they all add to the atmosphere. I found the character development of Elliott and James to be particularly noteworthy. Unfortunately, I can't deny the fact that some other roles are relatively unidimensional.
    The bonus episode ('Life is Strange: Before the Storm Farewell') definitely sums up the game as brilliantly as intensely.    … Expand
  4. KinimodYunmi
    Apr 16, 2023
    10
    Ein sehr gutes Spiel, ist wirklich heftig.
    Vom Gameplay her gefällt es mir sogar mehr als die Telltale Spiele.
    Edit: bereitet einem ein ordentliches Gefühlschaos aber es ist wunderschön zu durchleben!
  5. Bogdan008_Meta
    Apr 14, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Вчера я допрошел Life is Strange (Before the Storm), и остался с большим количеством положительных эмоций. Хороша написання история, с нужным количеством романтики, драмы и тоски. Начинаешь понимать персонажей, и сочувствовать им.
    В игре показано, как один человек может поменять твою жизнь, и стать тебе очень близким человеком с которым готов пойти на край света. И в особенности, это показано во втором эпизоде. Когда Хлоя и Рэйчел хотели сбежать из Аркадии Бэй. И даже в конце третьего эпизода, я смог пустить слезу.

    Life is Strange (Before the Storm) замечательная игра с отличней историей и персонажами. И поэтому, в неё стоит поиграть.    … Expand
  6. renyw
    Dec 19, 2022
    9
    great great great great great great great great great great great great great
  7. basic123
    Oct 18, 2022
    8
    Not as good as the main game but still very enjoyable with a good story. You need to play the main game first to understand the plot.
  8. Christian_TV
    May 27, 2022
    8
    Life Is Strange: Before the Storm is a Great,Great Game. A prequel truly worthy of its predecessor who goes to explore the difficult Story of Chloe. It doesn't deserve the highest rating because it doesn't give you the same emotions in my opinion.
  9. AmberAnk2000
    Apr 6, 2022
    8
    I like this game, but what getting more give it what getting is that it doesn't stay canon to what is stated as canon from the first game. This game breaks many moments that got confirm as canon in first game. Doesn't mean that I hate this game. Just don't like how it ruins the canon.
  10. SaQ1_Mixr
    Feb 8, 2022
    9
    Great story addition to the first LiS game. But to be honest, it is not as good as Life is Strange 1. Doesn't quite live up to its predecessor, but still an outstanding video game.
  11. TudorPopescu
    Dec 25, 2021
    10
    Life is Strange 1 being an amazing game, naturally it would be difficult for a prequel to live up to its name. And yet, Before the Storm does that brilliantly. It is absolutely a worthy prequel with new (and old) interesting characters, twists and an emotional story. Especially when you consider the events of the first game, which makes everything more tragic. Damn, it hit me hard. ThisLife is Strange 1 being an amazing game, naturally it would be difficult for a prequel to live up to its name. And yet, Before the Storm does that brilliantly. It is absolutely a worthy prequel with new (and old) interesting characters, twists and an emotional story. Especially when you consider the events of the first game, which makes everything more tragic. Damn, it hit me hard. This game actually made me feel much more than the first game.… Expand
  12. cepini7686
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    I’m really amazed by the fact that Chloe has no super natural power yet the story feels soo strong. A good prequel for a wonderful game
  13. Alexander_1996
    Sep 27, 2021
    10
    I finished "Before the Storm" yesterday but I still can't get over the fact it is the end - no more Max and Chloe in my life. I think the best way to describe my feelings right now is to compare them to the feeling of losing a friend, a real friend in real world - I have never lost a friend in my life (until now) but I bet it feels exactly the same way. Of course the story is superb, theI finished "Before the Storm" yesterday but I still can't get over the fact it is the end - no more Max and Chloe in my life. I think the best way to describe my feelings right now is to compare them to the feeling of losing a friend, a real friend in real world - I have never lost a friend in my life (until now) but I bet it feels exactly the same way. Of course the story is superb, the graphics are cool, the music is excellent, the gameplay is perfect but I don't think I want to say much about it besides what I've already said - all what you need to know is the fact that by the end of the story you will see the main characters as your best friends - how many games can boast that?… Expand
  14. Atyne
    Sep 17, 2021
    8
    +characters and relationships
    +badass moments
    +story twists
    +as atmospheric as first LiS

    -the ending was unfinished/sloppy
    -story wasn't as interesting as in the first LiS
  15. Bloodnes
    Aug 20, 2021
    8
    Занимательная история, в целом как и вся серия игр, сюжет держит до конца, много мыла, но есть и развязки. 8/10 обязательна для прохождения любителям жанра
  16. Danzanza1
    Jul 23, 2021
    10
    This game is powerful and disturbing. It's more of a cinematic game, with a beautiful soundtrack, just like the first game. if you are interested in playing this game, you have most likely already played the first game, meaning you're gonna spend most of the time with a lump in your throat, considering the huge amount of foreshadowing. So, in conclusion, should you buy this game?This game is powerful and disturbing. It's more of a cinematic game, with a beautiful soundtrack, just like the first game. if you are interested in playing this game, you have most likely already played the first game, meaning you're gonna spend most of the time with a lump in your throat, considering the huge amount of foreshadowing. So, in conclusion, should you buy this game? Absolutely. This game was soul crushing for me, and I'd give anything to experience this and the first game for the first time again.… Expand
  17. Dariya
    Jul 2, 2021
    9
    Summary:
    Strong, great game, an interesting exploration of Rachel's and Chloe's past.
  18. 444days
    May 19, 2021
    9
    do u people ever stop comparing previous titles??!?!? ._. it's better than the original imo... i think everyone misses the old life is strange and honestly whatever, this is a whole new vibe for the series tho just as good. besides seeing wlw relationships in big games is alalways amazing. i think ppl are way too harsh on this game
  19. Michiviher
    Apr 18, 2021
    10
    Хлоя мой любимый персонаж в игре Life is Strange!!!!! Я рад что про неё запилили отдельную игруху!!!!!
  20. Toddiaw
    Mar 18, 2021
    10
    La verdad una obra de arte en mi opinión ya que me ha hecho sentir emociones que nunca nada ni nadie me había hecho sentir. En lo personal de lejos mi juego favorito.
  21. yahya0
    Feb 26, 2021
    10
    مع ان القصة ليست بمستوى الجزء الاول لكنها كانت جميلة وذات احداث شيقة وعند انهائها تحزن لانك تعلم انك ستفارق هذه الشخصيات
  22. Aryman
    Feb 13, 2021
    10
    More a gem than a game. A must for all people with a heart. LiS evokes feelings that are extremely rare in games. Just play it (1. LiS Before the Storm. 2. LiS).
  23. Kotofon
    Jan 31, 2021
    9
    Life is Strange: Before the Storm - это новая игра в серии-победителе премии BAFTA, состоящая из 3 эпизодов. Главная героиня игры – 16-летняя бунтарка Хлоя Прайс, которая подружилась с самой популярной девушкой школы – Рейчел Эмбер. Тайна семьи Рейчел перевернула её жизнь с ног на голову и эта дружба – единственный оплот, который помогает справиться девушкам с их внутренними демонами.Life is Strange: Before the Storm - это новая игра в серии-победителе премии BAFTA, состоящая из 3 эпизодов. Главная героиня игры – 16-летняя бунтарка Хлоя Прайс, которая подружилась с самой популярной девушкой школы – Рейчел Эмбер. Тайна семьи Рейчел перевернула её жизнь с ног на голову и эта дружба – единственный оплот, который помогает справиться девушкам с их внутренними демонами.
  24. DJKrimson
    Jan 20, 2021
    8
    Great story addition to the first LiS game. It holds pretty much the same standards as the first game in all the aspects, so if you enjoyed that one I can recommend playing this too.
  25. Default_V
    Dec 1, 2020
    9
    Both Life is Strange and Before The Storm are great games. Easily 8.5 or 9.

    But! If you'll play them one by one, they'll become even better. As one story, they are close to perfection. And if you haven't played any of them - try BTS first. I think it may help understand Chloe's behaviour, etc. during original LiS. For me - easily one of the best characters I have ever seen in    Both Life is Strange and Before The Storm are great games. Easily 8.5 or 9.

    But!

    If you'll play them one by one, they'll become even better. As one story, they are close to perfection.

    And if you haven't played any of them - try BTS first. I think it may help understand Chloe's behaviour, etc. during original LiS. For me - easily one of the best characters I have ever seen in video games.

    Unfortunately - only 3 episodes. It's too few, 4 would've been perfect. But still, both games absolutely worth playing and if you are OK with almost "no gameplay games", it's a must-play title.
    Not everybody would like it, but if you care about story, about the feelings, about the human tragedy - give it a try.

    I felt in love with Life is Strange.    … Expand
  26. Andeyzv
    Dec 1, 2020
    10
    Amazing plot! awesome game! amazing emotions! beloved! awesome! more projects like this are needed! very soulful!
  27. BlackWidow
    Nov 27, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Through a friend suggestion, I picked up the deluxe edition for 5 bucks. Worth every penny. Although the game is not that long (3 main episodes and a prequel bonus), it goes deep. Very deep. You play Chloe, a 16 year old rebel, who meets Rachel, a rich prissy type, and they fall in love. Opposites attract right?

    The story was very good. Great in fact, with lots of twists and decision making. As you progress through the game, you have choices to play as the rebel Chloe has become, or (through dialogue choices), turn her into more of a nice girl. Personally, I liked the rebel, pure and true. The voice acting was also pretty good, and the graphics were decent.

    The game was very sad at times, and for the soft-hearted, you might just cry. This is especially true with the bonus episode "Good-Bye" where you play a 13 year old Max who is (was) Chloe's best friend before she had to move away.

    Any ways, the reason I am only giving the game an 8, is because, despite all the choices you can make which changes things around you, the game only has two possible endings, with one of them just adding an extra cut scene. So, not much replay value here. One or two plays and you're done forever. At least that's my opinion.

    In closing, a super effort by Deck Nine. I am happy I played it. It has left quite an impression on me; one that may just have a long lasting effect. Great. 8/10.    … Expand
  28. JadedWings
    Oct 20, 2020
    10
    Life is Strange is together with Before the Storm the best two parts of the LIS universe.
    The latest game in the series, Tell me Why, got another name but I know too well it derives from
    LIS as well, it's the well known cocktail of ingredients that people seem to like, and in that regard isn't bad at all! The black sheep of the series is part 2 imo. LIS is a one of a kind game, and    Life is Strange is together with Before the Storm the best two parts of the LIS universe.
    The latest game in the series, Tell me Why, got another name but I know too well it derives from
    LIS as well, it's the well known cocktail of ingredients that people seem to like, and in that regard isn't bad at all! The black sheep of the series is part 2 imo.

    LIS is a one of a kind game, and they could have done a few more part with Max and Cloe if it was
    up to me! at least i read alot of people would have loved to see more of the two friends    … Expand
  29. RustyJames
    Oct 3, 2020
    10
    True masterpiece. Even better than original. One of the best adventure game in whole history of video games.
    Sadness... All that you have at the end
  30. MgrDonut
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    **************************
    +Story
    +Gameplay
    + Rachel and Chloe
    **************************
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Awards & Rankings

33
#33 Most Discussed PC Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 19
  3. Negative: 1 out of 19
  1. GameSpot
    Apr 18, 2018
    80
    It's rare that a prequel truly works, where a story can captivate despite the audience knowing what's coming and where the path will lead. Life Is Strange: Before The Storm is one of those exceptional stories because it draws you in on its own terms. The only problem: You know it's building you up just to break your heart.
    Read full review
  2. CD-Action
    Apr 3, 2018
    80
    Life indeed is strange. I was dead certain that Before the Storm simply cannot be good, but it turned out just fine. It’s really well-written, with fleshed out characters and some humor here and there. I applaud the writers for ditching science fiction elements, but I wish BtS was as good a thriller as it is a love story. [03/2018, p.58]
  3. PC Invasion
    Mar 14, 2018
    80
    Deck Nine have finished off Life is Strange in sterling fashion. Saying farewell to Arcadia Bay with Before the Storm is sad, but the best farewells usually are.
    Read full review
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