Life is Strange: Before the Storm - Episode 2: Brave New World

When I reviewed the first episode of Before the Storm, I said those who liked and loved the original should give it a try. Now, I would say wait until the full thing is out. This is a storm of different winds all stirring around in one spot, not really seeming to go anywhere.

Life Is Strange: Before the Storm Episode 2: Brave New World showed me what Deck Nine is capable of in terms of storytelling and character growth. Also, the game’s choice system is well thought out and represented a wide variety of possibilities for many types of players.

Hell Is Empty is probably the most blatantly episodic entry between Life Is Strange and Before The Storm, showcasing comparatively few moments outside the opening scenes where the choices seem life-changing or urgent. Yet Deck Nine has effectively made a story with a predictable conclusion feel engaging, and even hopeful against all odds. Right now, it feels like a blessing that they've let Chloe and Rachel Amber have their simple moment in time; right now, nothing can go wrong, the world is full of possibilities. The storm can wait.

A powerful central relationship, an enigmatic plot, and terrific writing all elevate Before the Storm above the original series. This is fantastic adventure gaming, and some of the best writing in games at the moment, held back only by slightly shallow mechanics.

Life is Strange: Before the Storm – Brave New World is a great middle installment to the three-part series, and it offers a nice balance of gameplay, tough choices and gripping story that I found interesting and fun to play through. Despite its shortcomings in the area of puzzle challenge and the integration of the Back Talk mechanic, the narrative momentum is strong enough to overcome any of these.

Although it might not be as strong as Episode One, Episode Two builds in confidence and understands exactly what we want out of this story. Sad, happy, heartwarming and heartbreaking, Episode Two is an emotional experience.