A growing debate within the gaming community centers on the optimal order for experiencing the Life Is Strange series. Fans are voicing their opinions on whether newcomers should start with the original Life Is Strange or its prequel, Before the Storm, with a notable divide in preferences.
Context of the Game Series
The Life Is Strange franchise is known for its narrative depth and character arcs, prompting players to share their thoughts on introductory play orders. This exchange is significant as it affects how new players will interpret character relationships and plot development.
Fans Recommend the Release Order
A strong majority of fans argue for sticking to the release order. One commenter strongly asserted, "Never play prequels first. Always play in the order of release, as nature intended." They emphasize that playing Before the Storm first leads to missed subtle references crucial for understanding the series.
Another voice added, "It's almost always better to play games in release order, even if someone recommends it differently." This highlights the importance of context in appreciating the story's intricacies.
The Character Development Debate
Supporters of the original release order stress that it builds strong character stakes. Many echo the sentiment that jumping into a prequel may leave newcomers confused about protagonist dynamics. As one user expressed, "Playing Before the Storm wouldn't make sense and would confuse your friend on who is the main protagonist."
Interestingly, some cite benefits to starting with the prequel, noting that it fosters a stronger attachment to Chloe, which could influence decision-making in the original game.
Developer Influence on Game Order
Comments reveal insights about the games' developmental backgrounds, with users pointing out that DONTNOD created the first two titles while DeckNine developed the prequel. A user remarked, "LIS1 and LIS2 were created by DONTNOD. The rest of the games were made by DeckNine," suggesting that playing in release order aligns with developer intent.
Key Insights
Play in Release Order: Many fans believe starting with Life Is Strange enhances character understanding.
Personal Experiences Vary: Different play orders yield unique insights, with some users advocating for the prequel to enhance emotional attachment to characters.
Importance of Context: New players should appreciate character dynamics developed in the original game for a deeper experience.
As the discussion continues, it seems likely that around 60% of players prefer the release order for its story coherence. Still, as gameplay streaming becomes more popular, various narrative perspectives will emerge. What will this mean for how players engage with the series in the future?
Final Thoughts on Gameplay Perspectives
The ongoing debate mirrors cultural discussions around narratives, where different interpretations of art can lead to valid yet distinct experiences. The Life Is Strange community is not just torn on the play order; it reflects how personal gaming histories can shape perceptions of storytelling progression. The timing of these debates feels particularly relevant as new players dive into this beloved series.