Life is Strange: Episode 3 - Chaos Theory

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 263 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 227 out of 263
  2. Mixed: 19 out of 263
  3. Negative: 17 out of 263

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  1. TenchuuKhan
    Jun 20, 2015
    7
    Meh, for me this episode was a bit of a letdown towards the end because it turns from a really original plot into sort of a copycat.
    At least that's what it seems to me. I'm not sure if I like where it is heading, but we'll see about that once episode 4 and 5 are out.

    I just hope it doesn't end up in some self-sacrifice crap to stop those natural catastrophes. That would kill it for me.
  2. georgin95
    May 20, 2015
    10
    When you think Dontnod cannot play with your feelings even harder, Episode 3 comes rushing in to surprise you and leave you with the jaw on the floor with the ending. Along with a certain amount of optional fan service, you can see massive development of relationships between already established characters, which was done incredibly well.

    And when the episode ends, you realise, that    When you think Dontnod cannot play with your feelings even harder, Episode 3 comes rushing in to surprise you and leave you with the jaw on the floor with the ending. Along with a certain amount of optional fan service, you can see massive development of relationships between already established characters, which was done incredibly well.

    And when the episode ends, you realise, that with just 2 episodes left you still have so much to do and so much to fix. And your head fills with possible ways to continue and you can't wait for the next episode to be released to continue the wonderful story.

    What from the first minutes looked like Teenage School Drama with elements of superpowers turned into the best narrative gameplay I have ever seen.    … Expand
  3. Steeldude
    May 21, 2015
    10
    If you are reading this, I hope that you have already played the previous two episodes, as they are both great story-based games which are rare to see nowadays. Moreover, the goal of the game has always been to revolutionize the impact of choices which is something you could have already experienced by playing episodes 1-2. I have to say that the individual episodes are doing an amazingIf you are reading this, I hope that you have already played the previous two episodes, as they are both great story-based games which are rare to see nowadays. Moreover, the goal of the game has always been to revolutionize the impact of choices which is something you could have already experienced by playing episodes 1-2. I have to say that the individual episodes are doing an amazing job at what they are supposed to (bringing to us a realistic story that we are capable of experiencing on our own and change the future by our choices) and I gave a 9 to both Episodes 1 and 2.

    Keeping that in mind, I have to say that Chaos Theory is nevertheless the best episode so far.

    It is really hard to describe any episode of this series without giving away any spoilers, but:
    - Supposing you have seen the sneak peak at the end of Ep 2, you should already know that a large part of this episode takes part at night. Because of that, a nice feeling of tension is added to the story, as you have to walk around in the darkness using only the light of your mobile phone. It is quite reminiscent of some horror games and a welcome addition overall.
    - Also, it feels more like an adventure game, as there are more parts this time around where you have to gather items. There is more interaction with people and the surroundings this time around.
    - The ending part is simply amazing and a great idea overall.

    I love the direction this series is going and I no longer have doubts that this series will be long remembered as the first one that tried to attempt something slightly different and managed to do it in such a great way.    … Expand
  4. Baseballllls
    May 20, 2015
    9
    If you've played the other 2 episodes (which you should have by now) you'll know what to expect. Except, this time around you're due to be shocked and awed at the twists and turns, and just as you think things are going great, all hell breaks loose. Awesome story telling is what this is. A couple weird instances where I had no idea what to do, though.. Once you figure it out, the DopamineIf you've played the other 2 episodes (which you should have by now) you'll know what to expect. Except, this time around you're due to be shocked and awed at the twists and turns, and just as you think things are going great, all hell breaks loose. Awesome story telling is what this is. A couple weird instances where I had no idea what to do, though.. Once you figure it out, the Dopamine starts flowing. I wish there were more games like this, I'd throw my money at them. I rate this episode a 9/10. Minus a point, because that ending... Why can't I do something about it NOW! grr… Expand
  5. Tehpava
    May 20, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This episode was, in my opinion, the best episode of the three. It was little bit shorter than the episode 1 or 2, but the plot level it's very high. In this episode we can see that Max and Chloe are trying to enter in the principal office to find some clues about the Rachel's disappear and Kate's death, but they find something about Nathan too. I won't spoiler anymore, but the end of this episode, will blow your mind.… Expand
  6. Bedazzledcolour
    May 26, 2015
    10
    Played all 3 episodes, and this game is seriously fantastic. The game is on par with games like DA:O, ME, heavy rain, beyond two souls 'quality wise', you simply get lost in the game once you begin.

    For me, this game is everything the walking dead was not.

    A masterpiece and fully deserves 10.
  7. gyigyo2
    May 20, 2015
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Well this was the weakest episde of all..

    the first episode is great
    the second episode probably the best
    the 3rd episode is bad... why we cant to decide to let william to die or not? we forced to changed the history!!! i dont like this at all... the only good thing was in this episode you can decide you will be lesbian or not...and its not full happy endings.    … Expand
  8. Dunge
    May 29, 2015
    10
    Love the game for all the good reasons other mention, but rating this episode in particular is going to be a bit lower because it had a bit too much content re-utilization from the previous ones and felt less complete.
  9. Rem
    Jul 10, 2015
    9
    With the release of Episode 3: Chaos Theory, Life is Strange from DontNod has may have already taken the episodic gaming crown from TellTale. Rather than doting on plot twists and shocking character deaths, Episode 3 finds its strengths in the exploration of the relationship between Max and Chloe while not excellently lip synced, makes up for in the small moments, interactions, andWith the release of Episode 3: Chaos Theory, Life is Strange from DontNod has may have already taken the episodic gaming crown from TellTale. Rather than doting on plot twists and shocking character deaths, Episode 3 finds its strengths in the exploration of the relationship between Max and Chloe while not excellently lip synced, makes up for in the small moments, interactions, and dialogue. Once more the Life is Strange series boasts the impressive design of its world and the little details that populate. Stepping into the shoes of Max Caulfield, experiencing the world through her eyes and thoughts provided me with a sense of melancholy, in a world that I may never live in but continue to be fascinated by. The art style and music still bring that small town/Twin Peaks vibe with a dash of Juno while creating an identity of its own. Interacting with the world through point and click mechanics while serviceable, is carried by the young, charming nature that the game tries to set itself upon. And once you reach the jaw dropping conclusion in this tale, Episode 4 seems like thousands of years away. The little details, mood, and the relationship of the two main characters propel Life is Strange into a cult classic status despite its shortcomings.… Expand
  10. SenshudoTV
    Oct 1, 2015
    8
    “Enthralling”
    Opinion may be divided, but Life is Strange: Episode Three is a disarmingly confident attempt to fix the game's previous flaws with a renewed focus on its characters.
  11. Gwenchlan
    Jul 28, 2015
    10
    Everything increased : gameplay, story, the characters. It's simple : I replayed this episode too, because the final scene was really really surprising. I wasn't expecting it ! Now, the 4th episode is out. I'm wondering how all pieces will match and what will be the 4th episode final scene. Now, I'm sure of it : it's a very good game.
  12. cosmictherapy
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Life is Strange episode 3. You and your friend have to solve the mystery of the missing art students. In this episode the plot thickens and also it gets pretty gay. I really like how this game deals with a bunch of relevant themes like suicide, rape, mental illness, and positive relationships.My only complaint is why these teenagers didn't go to the police for help with a serial murderer.
  13. Andromeda707
    Mar 13, 2020
    9
    8.6/10
    Третий эпизод Life Is Stange начинается (в моем случае) с грустного послевкусия и мыслях о последствиях подросткового буллинга и о человеческом лицемерии в целом. Разработчики не дают заскучать игроку, добавляя в новые эпизоды отличные от предыдущих игровые ситуации. В частности в данном эпизоде присутствуют привычные в подобного рода адвенчурах детективные элементы, и даже в    8.6/10
    Третий эпизод Life Is Stange начинается (в моем случае) с грустного послевкусия и мыслях о последствиях подросткового буллинга и о человеческом лицемерии в целом. Разработчики не дают заскучать игроку, добавляя в новые эпизоды отличные от предыдущих игровые ситуации. В частности в данном эпизоде присутствуют привычные в подобного рода адвенчурах детективные элементы, и даже в каком-то смысле стелс-элементы, а также очередные махинации со временем и пространством, которые почему-то напомнили мне игру Braid. Ко всему прочему этот эпизод порадовал меня своей прекрасной ночной атмосферой с подходящим эмбиент-сопровождением. Ну и, конечно же, весьма неожиданная концовка, которая снова меняет всё представление о сюжете игры.    … Expand
  14. Ciocolici
    Aug 5, 2023
    10
    Episode 3 of "Life is Strange" is an emotional rollercoaster that left me with a whirlwind of feelings. The culmination of the episode left me utterly speechless; it was an experience beyond words. I can't help but marvel at the sheer brilliance of this installment. Simply put, it's amazing!

    Throughout the episode, I found myself completely engrossed in the unfolding events. The    Episode 3 of "Life is Strange" is an emotional rollercoaster that left me with a whirlwind of feelings. The culmination of the episode left me utterly speechless; it was an experience beyond words. I can't help but marvel at the sheer brilliance of this installment. Simply put, it's amazing!

    Throughout the episode, I found myself completely engrossed in the unfolding events. The storytelling reached new heights, tugging at my heartstrings and immersing me in a world filled with heartfelt moments and unexpected twists. The characters' journeys are as authentic as ever, and I continue to be invested in their growth and struggles.

    The depth of emotions that "Life is Strange" manages to evoke is truly remarkable. Joy, sorrow, anxiety, and excitement all come together to create an experience that's profoundly moving. I felt a genuine connection to the characters and the world they inhabit, making each decision and consequence all the more impactful.

    The end of the episode left me in awe, contemplating the significance of each choice I had made so far. The game's ability to make me reflect on my decisions and their consequences is a testament to its masterful storytelling and impactful gameplay mechanics.

    In conclusion, Episode 3 of "Life is Strange" delivers an unforgettable experience that has left an indelible mark on me. The powerful emotions, coupled with the enthralling narrative, have left me eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this extraordinary journey. I'm thoroughly impressed with the depth and complexity of the game, and I can't wait to see where the story leads next. "Life is Strange" continues to amaze and delight, making it a truly remarkable and exceptional gaming experience.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

66
#66 Best PC Game of 2015

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Game Rant
    Jun 8, 2015
    80
    Despite some noncommittal moments and sustained writing struggles, Life is Strange Episode 3‘s earnest and abundant heart keep it moving forward with plenty of promise.
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  2. Games.cz
    Jun 4, 2015
    80
    The French Dontnod succeeded for the third time and they managed to escalate the already exciting story. They successfully hide the lack of news in the game itself. Waiting for the next episode will be – in any case – the most difficult so far.
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  3. RPG Fan
    May 24, 2015
    74
    A Telltale-esque title set in suburban America that hints at maturity.
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