Life is Strange: Episode 2 - Out of Time

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 243 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 207 out of 243
  2. Mixed: 24 out of 243
  3. Negative: 12 out of 243

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  1. Gwenchlan
    Jul 28, 2015
    10
    The first episode was quite interesting, placing characters and gameplay. This second episode is growing our interest for the characters. Especially with the last game sequence which pushed me to replay the episode in a different way. Then, I was waiting to see how it modifies the story. Interest is still growing ; where will it lead ?
  2. icarus42
    Mar 26, 2015
    10
    This is the first review I've ever written, so bear with me.

    This game is, quite honestly, one of the best games that I have ever played. Before I get into the review I just wanted to say, though, that it's very possible you've heard something about the social justice undertones in this series. I can confirm these. On multiple occasions the protagonist mutters phrases like "wow, I    This is the first review I've ever written, so bear with me.

    This game is, quite honestly, one of the best games that I have ever played. Before I get into the review I just wanted to say, though, that it's very possible you've heard something about the social justice undertones in this series. I can confirm these. On multiple occasions the protagonist mutters phrases like "wow, I should volunteer for [save the bay effort]", or have hints that the best friend wouldn't use hair products with animals in it, or that guns should only be for women, etc. The protagonist herself is very reminiscent of a hipster, for a number of reasons too.

    Even will all of this, I can still say that the story is one of the best I think I have ever experienced. Throughout the day you make large and small decisions - never quite knowing if you made the right one. This creates some great self-narrative. The protagonist will mutter to herself "oh wow, that was really bad. I should probably change what I said" which makes the narrative really immersive, since you have to make decisions but still have control over the consequences you'll get since you can change what you said. This dynamic is really very cool. I'd really hate to spoil anything about the story, and since you definitely should have played he first episode you should know what you're getting yourself into anyways. Suffice to say the story is really amazing, and that every decision you make matters in the end.

    Onto the dialogue. It was pretty poor. There were some moments where a line was delivered and I felt bad for whoever had to voice-act it. It was just so simplistic at some points. I can't exactly put it into words. Also, the banter is compeletely out of touch. I heard the word selfie over and over and over again I just couldn't get it out of my head. Writers- please stop it. Nobody takes selfies all the time. Nobody uses a camera as old as the protagonist does. Nobody in california, where I live, uses the word "brah" unironically. Stop sterotyping your characters. Not everybody is a) a cheerleader/athlete b) a jock c) a geek d) a skater. That's just not how cultural dynamics are anymore, and also saying that bullies are a serious issue is a cliche too. I feel like, when I am playing the game, I am playing an anime or the sims. I really wish that the less serious moments weren't just guided by these cliches.

    The graphics are decent. The optimization could be improved, though (I could run this game max settings at about x2 MSAA at ~45 FPS, but on Battlefield 3 I get a full 60 on ultra...) The game does not look anywhere as good as BF3, of course. Still, if you have a nice machine this should be no problem. Everything looks strikingly like the sims, I have to say. That can be a good or a bad thing.

    So it should really speak volumes that I still love this game - every bad element can be overlooked easily. There are flaws, sure. But the serious issues that are confronted during the story and the way that you can effectively set up the ending you want throughout is just amazing. So to everybody reading this, I would say go buy the full series. It is a story you won't want to miss out on. To the devs... well.. don't mess this up now! I have faith in you, just don't end up finishing out a great series like mass effect 3. You really have something going right now.

    Who cares about this review anyways. You should start with the first episode, hopefully this review just tells you to go out and get this one too, and the rest of the series! Full price is absolutely worth it. You can pirate the first episode first too as a demo, too, if that's your cup of tea. But these devs do deserve your money.

    And before I go, one last thing. I think it was really cool that the devs put in elements that not necessarily every player was going to see. That sort of thing is dying out, but these guys really went the extra mile. I'll say it's something similar to how GTA has it's electric cars switch from gas to electric depending on your speed- it builds immersion but almost nobody'll know that. That attention to detail is just amazing.    … Expand
  3. rodericrinehart
    Mar 26, 2015
    9
    I have throughly enjoyed this game and I think they have really one-upped all of the Tellale cannon.

    I want to see so many more games like this. I could play 10 or more of these per year. I also want more female protagonists and regular settings with light sci-fi.
  4. Steeldude
    Mar 27, 2015
    9
    If you have played the first episode, you should know what to expect. A continuation of Max's story, a girl that has the ability to reverse time. This time you'll spend some time with Chloe and then you'll go back to school to be the witnesses to some unexpected events. This episode took me around 5.5 hours to finish 100% (talking to everyone, inspecting everything, getting all photos - inIf you have played the first episode, you should know what to expect. A continuation of Max's story, a girl that has the ability to reverse time. This time you'll spend some time with Chloe and then you'll go back to school to be the witnesses to some unexpected events. This episode took me around 5.5 hours to finish 100% (talking to everyone, inspecting everything, getting all photos - in total, that's 1 hour longer than episode 1), the story gets darker and you finally get to see that your decisions from the first episode matter.
    Basically, this episode is the ideal sequel to the first episode. I can only say: Way to go!
    I can't wait to play Episode 3.
    If you like story-driven games in general, you should give this episodic series a shot.    … Expand
  5. areyouhuman
    Apr 2, 2015
    4
    The weak premise fails to sustain a flagging plot. The voice acting and the dialog take a turn for the worse, which is saying something. A lot of the themes becoming overbearing. The game's only mechanic, your ability to rewind time, becomes almost unbearably wearisome. That there have been so many highly positive early reviews of such a sloppy project is something I find suspicious. MyThe weak premise fails to sustain a flagging plot. The voice acting and the dialog take a turn for the worse, which is saying something. A lot of the themes becoming overbearing. The game's only mechanic, your ability to rewind time, becomes almost unbearably wearisome. That there have been so many highly positive early reviews of such a sloppy project is something I find suspicious. My girlfriend seemed to like it, I assume because she speaks English as a second language, up until the puzzles became unimaginative and melodramatic. Who has been saving the life of Maxine's friend six times a day, everyday, before Maxine got superpowers? Still a high level of world detail and some beautiful graphics for a story game.… Expand
  6. dannieeddie2008
    Apr 13, 2015
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Life is Strange Episode 2 - Out of Time. In my opinion isn't a very good episode, the first episode is a little better but still isn't a great game.
    The graphics of the game look nice. I also like how they have done 'some' of the characters, some of them are too stereotype. For example, Victoria being the bully but is nice to you when she wants something out of you.
    I found this game to very boring and you are just in a walking simulator at the end of it. You don't have many choices to choose from (as this is a choice based game), I feel like you only have two choices and nothing in between.

    I am giving this a 1/10 because of the story, the characters and just the way the game is set.    … Expand
  7. MattBarker
    Apr 13, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. oh my, this is the best game i pay that release in 2015
    ok the story of max continue better then ever
    ever thing in this episode better then the first one
    specially the final dialog it's so good, this game have the best final dialog sins episode 5 form the wolf among us
    it depends on the previous choices and how to use them it's so good    … Expand
  8. Rem
    Jul 10, 2015
    8
    Life is Strange Episode 2 continues the strange life of Max Caulfield as she tries to go about her everyday life while trying to stop a tornado that will wipe out Arcadia Bay. DontNod once again nails the mood and atmosphere of the setting with soft guitar strums and moments of idleness punctuating the best parts of the game. While the game inevitably turns into a five bottle fetch questLife is Strange Episode 2 continues the strange life of Max Caulfield as she tries to go about her everyday life while trying to stop a tornado that will wipe out Arcadia Bay. DontNod once again nails the mood and atmosphere of the setting with soft guitar strums and moments of idleness punctuating the best parts of the game. While the game inevitably turns into a five bottle fetch quest halfway through, it's still captivating because of the charming, immature nature of each character which are fleshed out even further in this episode which hits a fantastic conclusion. While the lip syncing is still way off, your choices still have an impact in this game, and the simple gameplay makes it really easy to begin enjoying this rather short episode. Take your time when you play and you'll see the charm and exquisite details hidden in this beautifully realized world and the characters that inhabit it.… Expand
  9. SenshudoTV
    Apr 22, 2015
    8
    Life is Strange Episode Two delivers on its early promises of big choices and interesting gameplay, but those hoping for an improvement on E1's ropey dialogue and character tropes will be disappointed.
  10. kru_
    Sep 8, 2015
    3
    The first episode was fresh and interesting. Episode 2 is boring and drawn out. Find 5 bottles! The game changes up its mechanics at a pivotal moment. Where ep 1 was exciting and fascinating, ep 2 is like watching the amateurs take over for the pros.
  11. DannyTalent
    Apr 20, 2015
    6
    I reviewed the first episode with a 3, and I stand my ground.
    HOWEVER...
    Life is Strange can be quite surprising, actually. It was a 'strange' experience. Please don't puke over that pun, I know I did. Alright, so what has Episode 2 that makes LiS go from a 3 to a 6? Well, first of all, most of the original problems that I very sensibly pointed out such as crap animations, voice acting,    I reviewed the first episode with a 3, and I stand my ground.
    HOWEVER...
    Life is Strange can be quite surprising, actually. It was a 'strange' experience. Please don't puke over that pun, I know I did.
    Alright, so what has Episode 2 that makes LiS go from a 3 to a 6? Well, first of all, most of the original problems that I very sensibly pointed out such as crap animations, voice acting, cheesy lines and cliché story are kind of still there, but a little more polished. Yes, the animations are still garbage, yes the girl says the cheesiest possible lines (haha, she said go-tassium instead of potassium what a comedian), but Out of Time made me look past these flaws. While still mildly annoying, it gets put aside by a good character development and a compelling story. Your decisions do matter and that's a thing I really liked here, the first episode said they would, but it did not feel good enough. In episode two, it really makes you want to go back (further back than Max's powers allow her to) and change some things...
    The voice acting was a bit worse as well, but the dialogues felt fluid and coherent. Perhaps some parts aren't ultra-realistic real life situations, but that's alright.
    And even though I said I looked past those things, it's still no excuse to just release the game as it was. Perhaps if they'd spent another month or two polishing a few details, I'd given it an 8 or 9. But we'll have to wait for the next 3 installments so I can actually do a decent review on this.

    Good game, go grab it, but for the love of god don't give up on episode 1! I hated it and didn't. I really think this game has potential.    … Expand
  12. 1sonicthe
    May 9, 2015
    8
    Its a really cool game episode, well, at the end of it, you will be crying or tremendous, really incredible experience, BUUUTT as usual, there are some freaking boring parts, such as finding some random bottles! SOOOOOO FUUUUUNNN!
  13. luketeddy
    Jul 29, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Better then the first episode. in the first one I did not really care for the charters that much but in this episode a student dies named Kate marsh and it's really sad.… Expand
  14. Andromeda707
    Mar 11, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 8.7/10
    Второй эпизод Life is Strange является для меня первым эпизодом игры, в котором я действительно начал испытывать тревогу, и разработчики очень интересным образом смогли достичь такого эффекта. Медленно текущие события, которые больше всего должны интересовать по сути своей интересовать игрока (взаимоотношения Хлои и Макс), занимают бОльшую часть эпизода и местами выглядят очень предсказуемыми (действительно, что может пойти не так, когда вы лежите и отдыхаете на рельсах), хотя местами геймплей становится более разнообразным и заставляет тебя включать голову, запоминать определенные моменты (благо параллельно я играю в L.A.Noire и уже научился обращать внимания на такие детали, смог обойтись в этой части игры даже без волшебного дара Макс). И как снег на голову обрушивается концовка, которую тоже нельзя назвать непредсказуемой, но главный эффект тут заключается в одной простой формуле: 1) заставить игрока поверить в то, что он в игре с бесконечным количеством допустимых ошибок и вообще владыка времени, полная противоположность рогаликам с перманентной смертью, где хардкорные игроки только и задумываются о том, чтобы не допустить ни одной ошибки, так как она будет фатальной; 2) внезапно забрать эту способность у игрока в самый неподходящий драматичный момент. Скачок напряжения гарантирован. И в это самое мгновение, когда ты, казалось бы, по ходу первого и второго эпизода старался выбирать только "правильные" решения, всё равно в итоге сталкиваешься со снежным комом серьёзных проблем, ты понимаешь, что идеальных решений не бывает. А ещё ты в очередной раз понимаешь, что эту игру придётся перепроходить. И это хорошо.    … Expand
  15. Ciocolici
    Aug 5, 2023
    10
    Episode 2 of "Life is Strange" proves to be an incredible continuation of the already amazing first episode. The story unfolds with unparalleled brilliance, and the characters continue to captivate my heart. I can't help but fall deeper in love with this game as I progress through its enthralling narrative.

    The storytelling in Episode 2 is nothing short of extraordinary, effortlessly    Episode 2 of "Life is Strange" proves to be an incredible continuation of the already amazing first episode. The story unfolds with unparalleled brilliance, and the characters continue to captivate my heart. I can't help but fall deeper in love with this game as I progress through its enthralling narrative.

    The storytelling in Episode 2 is nothing short of extraordinary, effortlessly carrying on the emotional weight and intrigue set by the first episode. The depth and development of the characters add a layer of authenticity to the experience, making them feel like genuine individuals with their own dreams, fears, and struggles.

    As I delve further into the game, my connection to the world of "Life is Strange" deepens, and I find myself becoming more emotionally invested in the fate of the characters. Their dilemmas and challenges resonate deeply with me, stirring a myriad of emotions that keep me engaged and eager to uncover more.

    The seamless continuation of the Telltale-inspired style is commendable, giving players the power to shape the course of events with meaningful choices. It's a testament to the game's ability to draw players into its narrative and make them active participants in the storytelling process.

    In summary, Episode 2 of "Life is Strange" is a masterful installment that seamlessly carries on the magic of the first episode. The captivating story and well-crafted characters have ensnared my heart, making me even more enamored with this game. I can't wait to see what the future episodes have in store and how the journey of these characters will unfold. "Life is Strange" continues to be a remarkable and unforgettable experience that has left an indelible mark on my gaming journey. I eagerly await the next chapter of this extraordinary tale.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

93
#93 Best PC Game of 2015

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. 4P.de
    Apr 17, 2015
    79
    An entertaining thriller that strays too far from the storytelling of the first episode.
    Read full review
  2. GameWatcher
    Apr 10, 2015
    90
    It brings suspense and intrigue to the forefront, while still tackling the science fiction and drama effectively. Emotions run high in multiple points, always keeping you eager to see what’s going to happen next.
    Read full review
  3. Merlin'in Kazanı (Turkey)
    Apr 8, 2015
    80
    The second episode of Life is Strange is as beautiful as the first.
    Read full review
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