Life is Strange: Before the Storm

Life is Strange: Before the Storm is a three-part, standalone narrative adventure by Deck Nine. It is set three years before Life is Strange and follows 16-year-old Chloe Price, whose new friendship with Rachel Amber changes both their lives. Dialogue and decisions determine how relationships and conflicts unfold.

Life is Strange: Before the Storm was released on August 31, 2017 for PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Feral Interactive released the Mac and Linux versions on September 13, 2018. The mobile versions for iOS and Android followed in September 2018.

The original Before the Storm was released for Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS and Android. The later Remastered version is a separate product. On Nintendo Switch, the reworked story is part of the Arcadia Bay Collection, not the original 2017 console version.

Before the Storm focuses on conversations, exploration and decisions. Chloe investigates locations in Arcadia Bay, talks with classmates and adults, and reacts to the consequences of her words. The story branches out through different decisions, without using a classic combat system.

The bonus episode "Farewell" adds a look back at the youth of Max and Chloe. It is part of the Deluxe Edition or the corresponding upgrade. Other separately offered content includes an alternative outfit for Chloe, among other things. The bonus episode is separate from the three main episodes.

According to Steam, the Windows version requires at least an Intel Core i3-2100 or AMD Phenom X4 945, 3 GB RAM and a GeForce GTX 650 or Radeon R7 250. For the Mac and Linux versions, Feral Interactive lists its own hardware requirements, which differ from the Windows version.

The focus is on Chloe's relationship with Rachel Amber. Both get caught up in family conflicts and uncover secrets that change how they see each other. The game tells the prehistory of the characters, whose fate plays a central role in the first Life is Strange.

In certain conversations, Chloe can use the "Backtalk" system to try to win over her counterpart with quick-witted replies. The right response depends on what the other person says. Unlike Max Caulfield in the first game, Chloe has no ability to rewind time.

The main story consists of three episodes that together tell the story of Chloe and Rachel. The events build on each other, so decisions and relationships carry weight throughout. The adventure is designed as a self-contained prequel.

The musical core consists of songs and an original score by the band Daughter. The music supports the calm, often melancholic tone and accompanies important encounters. Graffiti, clothing and other small interactions help portray Chloe's personality.

On Steam, Before the Storm includes German on-screen text and subtitles. The full voice-over is available there in English. The main game is a single-player adventure with Steam achievements and cloud saves.