Life is Strange: True Colors Review

Developer: Deck Nine

Publisher: Square Enix

Release Date: 10/09/21

Platform: Reviewed on PS5 (also available on PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Stadia, and PC).

At the conclusion of the first chapter, it became evident that Life is Strange: True Colors was poised to deliver an unforgettable experience. Renowned for its emotionally charged narratives, the Life is Strange series tackles weighty themes, and True Colors emerges as one of its most impactful adventures yet.

True Colors remains faithful to its predecessors, offering a story-driven experience with minimal gameplay mechanics. Central to the game is the idea that player choices profoundly influence the direction of the narrative and the perceptions of in-game characters.

The Narrative

The game centers around Alex Chen, who, following a troubled past and separation from her brother during foster care, reunites with him in the picturesque town of Haven Springs. However, Alex possesses a unique ability – she can perceive and manipulate the emotions of others, a gift fraught with both advantages and drawbacks. Tragically, her reunion with her brother is cut short by a mysterious accident, prompting Alex to embark on an investigation alongside newfound allies Steph and Ryan in search of the truth.

The heart of True Colors lies in its narrative, which expertly navigates a myriad of emotions, from heartbreak to joy. The game skillfully addresses themes of self-discovery, grief, and resilience, offering a mature and nuanced storytelling experience. Player actions carry significant weight, enhancing emotional investment and fostering a sense of agency.

Gameplay

True Colors offers straightforward gameplay mechanics, primarily revolving around exploration and interaction. Players navigate the town of Haven Springs, engaging with objects and characters to advance the plot and uncover additional lore. The inclusion of a phone interface provides supplementary narrative context, enriching the game world and character development.

Noteworthy is Chapter 3’s departure from traditional gameplay, introducing a live-action role-play segment featuring turn-based combat. This innovative gameplay element injects diversity into the experience, complementing the game’s core focus on player choice and consequence.

The Power of Empathy

A hallmark of the Life is Strange series is its incorporation of supernatural abilities, and True Colors is no exception. Alex’s empathic abilities add depth to the gameplay, allowing players to interact with NPCs on a deeper emotional level. This mechanic not only enriches character interactions but also drives certain narrative choices, underscoring the game’s thematic exploration of empathy and understanding.

An Uneven Presentation

True Colors boasts a distinctive art style characterized by vibrant colors and expressive character designs, a notable improvement over previous installments. However, performance issues, such as frame rate instability, detract from the overall experience, particularly on next-generation hardware.

On a positive note, the game features a captivating soundtrack that effectively complements its emotional beats, enhancing immersion and atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Life is Strange: True Colors delivers an emotionally resonant journey, navigating themes of loss, identity, and compassion with grace and depth. While marred by technical shortcomings, the game’s compelling narrative and meaningful player choices make it a must-play experience. True Colors serves as a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and the enduring impact of human connection.

Honest Rating: 8.5/10