Life is Strange: Before the Storm

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 576 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 414 out of 576
  2. Mixed: 103 out of 576
  3. Negative: 59 out of 576
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. scorp332211
    Apr 3, 2021
    10
    Before the Storm is the best LIS right behind #1 and 10 times better than #2. It’s more interesting playing with Chloe and Rachel than it is with Max (although I still love #1). The story of two rebels in the making is really cool. It shows how Chloe developed before the events of #1. There’s no time bending, but there are lots of choices to make. If you want an emotional story with lotsBefore the Storm is the best LIS right behind #1 and 10 times better than #2. It’s more interesting playing with Chloe and Rachel than it is with Max (although I still love #1). The story of two rebels in the making is really cool. It shows how Chloe developed before the events of #1. There’s no time bending, but there are lots of choices to make. If you want an emotional story with lots of choices this game is for you. It holds up well even 3.5 years later. Also has a great soundtrack like all the LIS games. And the extra episode “Farewell” is a nice finish to the Max and Chloe story. If this is Deck 9’s best than there’s hope for LIS True Colors. Definitely recommend BTS!… Expand
  2. Tobol
    Sep 28, 2018
    10
    You know the feeling when you finish a really good book? When you feel the pain it had to end and you know you will miss the characters? It will happen after you finish this game. And if you have played the original it will be really heartbreaking knowing what will be their future.
  3. kremedved
    Aug 12, 2019
    10
    Great game! So love it, especially after ending Life is strange. Beautiful story.
  4. NathanGPLC
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    NO SPOILERS!
    I'll update this review as the remaining episodes drop, but having playing the first episode thoroughly with one tactic, I'm absolutely thrilled. Deck Nine has impressed me much more than I expected was possible in a prequel from a new developer.
    The story relies on the elements that made LiS its best self: emotional depth and relatable content. From the bullies and    NO SPOILERS!
    I'll update this review as the remaining episodes drop, but having playing the first episode thoroughly with one tactic, I'm absolutely thrilled. Deck Nine has impressed me much more than I expected was possible in a prequel from a new developer.

    The story relies on the elements that made LiS its best self: emotional depth and relatable content. From the bullies and baddies who clearly have their own problems and redeeming qualities, to the realistic looks at differing reactions to pain, I was glad to see that LiS is back.

    But to address the elephant in the room: The voice actors are fine, and in fact, I really enjoyed the game's use of them. Just like in the original LiS, what appears out-of-context to be choppy dialogue (c'mon, folks; LiS had cheesy dialogue and, in some cases, not-excellent voice acting) actually melds together into believable conversations and satisfying narrative beats. There are cringe-worthy moments, but that's to be expected... and to be honest, some of them felt like intentional homages to the first game's "charm" (quality issues).    … Expand
  5. Hello_Games
    Feb 13, 2018
    10
    Played and loved all three episodes. Shedding the time travel mechanic makes decisions feel more impact overall and the story is beautiful. Makes you think.
  6. igator
    Sep 14, 2019
    10
    Sometimes when prequel or sequel of a game comes out, it may mean that publisher just wants to gain more money by exploiting a famous name. But this is definitely not that case. New devs made their part and did it almost flawless. Why almost? That I will explain a bit later. So what do we have here? The new game about the most controversial and interesting character of the original Life isSometimes when prequel or sequel of a game comes out, it may mean that publisher just wants to gain more money by exploiting a famous name. But this is definitely not that case. New devs made their part and did it almost flawless. Why almost? That I will explain a bit later. So what do we have here? The new game about the most controversial and interesting character of the original Life is Strange - Chloe. You'd say we all actually know her story in general. But not in details. And by completing this game I can say, that details mean a lot! Seriously! I could never thought that there will be another game in LiS series, which could beat the original, especially taking into account the fact that it would be developed by a completely different team of gamemakers. And still here it is. What a touching, gentle and heartwarming story could create Deck Nine Games! I am just astonished. This was a great pleasure for me to be the witness and participant in the events, happened in this game.
    This is one of a few games which I played and did not ask myself "why did this happened?" or "why did they (devs) turn this music right now?"... It is not awkward in any way. It feels natural. Gameplay is perfectly balanced.
    For me it is the game with an appropriate pacing, a fully suitable soundtrack, colorful characters and unconventional visuals.
    I thought that bonus episode was made just for fans of the series and do not contain any real story. But I was wrong. It perfectly complements the main story of both games and answers all the possible questions. Plus, Ashly Burch and Hannah Telle are back on the scene. They made this episode so much livelier amd entertaining!
    And that is why I wrote earlier that this game is "almost" perfect. I think that Ashly is just a perfect performer for the role of Chloe. While Rhianna DeVries did a decent job, sometimes she sounded a bit too harsh and clunky. Ashly, on the other hand, has never crossed the line. She admirably plays with her voice and is a true genius in her own right.
    What can I say more? I would like to mention great directing. Soundtrack is wonderful. New curious dialog "puzzle" system is a good choice. Characters' outfits are adorable. Devs improved facial animations and added new body animations, which is great, as this fact makes the game more refined and enjoyable.
    A few words about technical side. The game offers two modes for the Pro model: "High resolution" (1440p/30fps) and "High performance" (1080p/60fps). I like the second one more, as the blur effect in "High resolution" mode is too heavy, although the image seems a little bit clearer and slightly more detailed.
    All in all, this game is remarkable. Of course it has it's flaws. But they are mostly technical, so they do not make the story or the gameplay any less appealing.
    But, after all, I personally play games for enjoyment. And this game brought a lot of fun to me.    … Expand
  7. obigeneral
    Feb 27, 2018
    10
    Once played the original game, you can't imaging how Rachel is. They are someone you care about. Beautiful story. The lack is that you know how she (Rachel) is going to be... And that is something I can't think about!
  8. BananaLuiz
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    Incredible and magical as it should be, charismatic characters, interesting and varied, a wonderful soundtrack and an impressive art direction, the game touches on delicate and controversial subjects with a lot of respect and makes the experience very immersive and magical, looking forward to the next episode
  9. Steish
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    MY GOD. I was so waiting for this, and i understand why now. Life is Strange Before the Storm is the best game of 2017. This Soundtrack, mama mia. This characters so good, actually feel them in my heart.
    Please,buy that game and enjoy to replay that. They add mystery in a game, bud i will so waiting for next episode. Deck Nine, thank you from my heart.
  10. sva9sharpteeth
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    The game is perfect. I can simply call it the best among all the games nowadays. It's difficult to get eyes off the screen. Just play and you will see, it's really perfect.
  11. Gonkongs
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    This is the best game, i ever played. You have, you must to play that and feel the game. This menu is already 8|10, but game is actually 12|10, so sorry, cant rate that so! Metacritic, i am waiting for site update, with possible to rate that over 10 out of 10, special for Life is Strange! Please, play it now!
  12. PanosChris
    Sep 1, 2017
    10
    The first episode starts this prequel series off strong with awesome atmosphere and a great backstory of the much loved character, Chloe. Although the 'rewind' mechanic that made Life Is Strange unique and great doesn't exist here, Deck Nine did an amazing job in the first episode and I can't wait for the next 2 episodes to come out.
  13. FatalBrush
    Aug 23, 2019
    10
    I played through all the three episodes and also the bonus episode of "before the storm". It's astonishing to see a story so well put together. There are details and connections that go through all the episodes of the series, the decisions become really hard to make and the story is really touching. I couldn't have wished more for this series. This is a great prequel that let's you dive inI played through all the three episodes and also the bonus episode of "before the storm". It's astonishing to see a story so well put together. There are details and connections that go through all the episodes of the series, the decisions become really hard to make and the story is really touching. I couldn't have wished more for this series. This is a great prequel that let's you dive in this world again, quite deep.… Expand
  14. dalerhalimov
    Apr 5, 2018
    10
    I just love everything about this game: the art style, the music, the characters, the story, just everything! I hope there gonna be another chapter about these amazing characters
  15. DonnieBoy23
    May 6, 2018
    10
    Awesome game with serious but also really funny moments if you are a 'good boy/girl' you wont understand it and you might be skeptical but to them i say grow up this is the real world
  16. Br_AgSs
    Nov 12, 2019
    10
    This game is AMAZING, I cried like a baby during the ending and the bonus episode. Its great to see Rachel's backstory and her relantionship with Chloe and hw things were befre the storm, before William died.
  17. TonyPhuong2409
    Apr 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. amazing game, character is pretty good, the story is great, thanks dontnod and square enix… Expand
  18. PanzerRo
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    maybe the graphs are not that good but still the game is amazing we take a look at Rachel, and the story is based around her i still hope for another game with Max and Chloe
  19. Anima2z
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    the best story I found in games, my favorite game amazing writing, emotion rollercaster
  20. Andeyzv
    Dec 1, 2020
    10
    Amazing plot! awesome game! amazing emotions! beloved! awesome! more projects like this are needed! very soulful!
  21. sultanv
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    Because I just recently discovered a finished LIS I immediately jumped to BTS. A prequel rarely works this good. This game is also demanding, the musical score, the story, and the dynamic between the two main characters, plus the chemistry is fantastic. Very emotional and lifelike story. It is a must if you enjoyed LIS1. The voice acting of the main characters are praiseworthy. Episode2 isBecause I just recently discovered a finished LIS I immediately jumped to BTS. A prequel rarely works this good. This game is also demanding, the musical score, the story, and the dynamic between the two main characters, plus the chemistry is fantastic. Very emotional and lifelike story. It is a must if you enjoyed LIS1. The voice acting of the main characters are praiseworthy. Episode2 is easily my favourite ep from both LIS1 and BTS games. And I didn't mention that this game is more humorous than the first.… Expand
  22. NazarLR9
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Обожаю эту игру, и в принципе вселенную life is strange. Life is strange before the storm ни разу не хуже первой части. Всем фанатам первой части советую пройти данную игру
  23. WolfyGirl2077
    Nov 22, 2020
    10
    One of the only games where the story captivated me and the sad times made me cry like i was at a burial u can feel the emotions in the air if this game is redone for Playstation 5 with the 3d sound and feel of the controller im definitely gonna play it all over
  24. Ottalaus_saus
    Feb 16, 2023
    10
    This really is a flawless game. Storys awesome, although your choices really dont matter most of the time.

    I really like the music, although I'm a soundcloud-type music type of guy, this stuff I found myself listening to on my free time. Also this game is incredibly sad. Even though you're not an emotional person youll still shed a tear. And it may affect you a lot, just like the main    This really is a flawless game. Storys awesome, although your choices really dont matter most of the time.

    I really like the music, although I'm a soundcloud-type music type of guy, this stuff I found myself listening to on my free time.

    Also this game is incredibly sad. Even though you're not an emotional person youll still shed a tear. And it may affect you a lot, just like the main game, post-LIS depression is no joke.    … Expand
  25. Jhonny_Jhonny
    Nov 16, 2022
    10
    Beautiful story. it was worth playing. It's very dramatic, similar to the previous one.
  26. rodericrinehart
    Jan 2, 2018
    9
    First off, another great game from Dontnod. There are no magical powers this time, but it does not detract from the story or the gameplay. It was really refreshing to see what happened to Rachel Amber and see a lot more of Chloe. The new voice actor was good, but the old one will return in the true sequel. These games are just better in every way from the Telltale games. I want more ofFirst off, another great game from Dontnod. There are no magical powers this time, but it does not detract from the story or the gameplay. It was really refreshing to see what happened to Rachel Amber and see a lot more of Chloe. The new voice actor was good, but the old one will return in the true sequel. These games are just better in every way from the Telltale games. I want more of these types of games, but only if they are the quality of Life is Strange, Edith Finch, or Oxenfree.… Expand
  27. yatesy
    Sep 11, 2018
    9
    In my view this sequel surpasses the original Life Is Strange. The relationship that's built between Chloe and Rachel just felt very real and sincere, which is refreshing to see. Maybe the story isn't as diverse as the 1st but it is solid and well told so I'll give them a pass for that.

    Honestly wasn't expecting it to be as good as the original but this was a nice surprise. Had a blast    In my view this sequel surpasses the original Life Is Strange. The relationship that's built between Chloe and Rachel just felt very real and sincere, which is refreshing to see. Maybe the story isn't as diverse as the 1st but it is solid and well told so I'll give them a pass for that.

    Honestly wasn't expecting it to be as good as the original but this was a nice surprise. Had a blast in my 8 hour playthrough - pick it up you won't regret it.    … Expand
  28. maddiplomat
    Sep 11, 2021
    9
    While not as amazing as LiS 1, this game is a must play for fans of the original.
  29. MasterRiley
    Dec 20, 2017
    9
    Life is Strange: Before the Storm is a prequel story that focuses on Chloe and Rachel's relationship before the events of the main game. It is made with the same level of love and care as the main game; including great storytelling, voice acting, music, etc. While it is good, I felt the story was not as emotionally engaging or ambitious as the main game. But it is still well worth yourLife is Strange: Before the Storm is a prequel story that focuses on Chloe and Rachel's relationship before the events of the main game. It is made with the same level of love and care as the main game; including great storytelling, voice acting, music, etc. While it is good, I felt the story was not as emotionally engaging or ambitious as the main game. But it is still well worth your time if you are a big fan of the main game.… Expand
  30. CoreGamer1408
    Apr 3, 2020
    9
    Well I got my purchase confused I thought this was the time rewind one, nope. Graphics reminiscent of Telltale games. The VA and music really added a lot of class to the experience. The gameplay is fairly simple and so the experiences ends up more character and story driven focus.

    Well to say it is about two girls with daddy issues is kind of underselling this immensely. I had fun with    Well I got my purchase confused I thought this was the time rewind one, nope. Graphics reminiscent of Telltale games. The VA and music really added a lot of class to the experience. The gameplay is fairly simple and so the experiences ends up more character and story driven focus.

    Well to say it is about two girls with daddy issues is kind of underselling this immensely. I had fun with the character Chloe Price who is quite a darling. Edgy sarcastic emo type character with a hidden heart of gold ( well that is how I played her ). I was really routing for her to find her place in life and the world.

    This story and some of the characters do go to some dark places, beyond simple teenage angst and young love. Very much a coming of age drama. With a host of characters that had relatable and down to earth problems.

    What started out like it was a fun comedy about a sassy young women molded into a more adult adventure with dire and serious consequences. It really plucked those heartstrings a lot about, love, loss, family and friendship.    … Expand
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

100
#100 Best PS4 Game of 2017
45
#45 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. IGN Japan
    Jun 26, 2018
    87
    Due to the fact that this is a prequel, the storyline and characters of Life is Strange: Before the Storm feel a bit contrived. Nevertheless, despite these inconsistencies, fans of the original Life is Strange will still be moved by Chloe’s adventure.
    Read full review
  2. 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
  3. Attack of the Fanboy
    Mar 22, 2018
    80
    Is this game as good as the original Life is Strange? Personally, I don't think so. But it's still great nonetheless and definitely shouldn't be missed by fans of the first game.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »