Square Enix and Dontnod Entertainment’s hit series, Life is Strange, is set to return this September with Episode 1 following the tremendous success of the original time-rewinding adventure and its prequel spinoff. In an attempt to maintain player engagement and emulate the immersion of chapters in a book, the original game was released as periodic episodes throughout the year, similar to Telltale’s graphic adventure titles.
In Life is Strange, players assume the role of Maxine “Max” Caulfield as she navigates her way through her old hometown in the Pacific Northwest. There, she discovers a strange ability to rewind time, a hidden conspiracy, and a reunion with a former best friend. Known for its beautiful, acoustic soundtrack delineating the soulful vibes of the PNW, and its engaging narrative that enraptures players from the start, the series saw the emergence of a fan base enamored with such a unique, interactive concept.
Square Enix announced the release date for the 5-episode sequel today alongside a teaser trailer. The trailer itself gives very little context in terms of story, as it shows nothing more than a bunch of strings threading through fabric to form the title of the game. Square promised to reveal more info closer to the release date, but fans should be satisfied that an official announcement has been given.
Aside from a prequel, another spinoff set in the same universe was announced recently at E3 titled The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Taking place in the same timeline, the free standalone game is described as a “narrative experience demo”, and it presumably offers the same game mechanics and interactivity as the other titles. Pre-orders for Season 2 of Life is Strange will launch alongside the release of Captain Spirit on June 26. Choices and story elements from the upcoming spin-off will apparently carry over to Life is Strange 2, so think of it as a free appetizer for fans while they wait for the highly anticipated sequel.
Life is Strange 2: Episode 1 will drop September 27 on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows PC.