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Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Life is Strange: Double Exposure
Item: Life is Strange: Double Exposure
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Drama, Single Player

AvailableOct 29, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperDeck Nine Games

Overview

Max Caulfield, photographer-in-residence at the prestigious Caledon University, discovers her closest new friend Safi dead in the snow. Murdered. To save her, Max tries to Rewind time – a power she’s not used in years… Instead, Max opens the way to a parallel timeline where Safi is still alive and still in danger! Max realizes the killer will soon strike again – in both versions of reality. Only Max can Shift between the two parallel timelines to solve and prevent the same murder.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Life is Strange: Double Exposure" offers a mixed narrative experience; praised for its emotional depth and intriguing themes like grief and regret, it nonetheless suffers from poor execution and disjointed storytelling. Critics highlight confusing dual-timelines and unresolved plot points that detract from character development, leaving many fans of the original feeling disappointed. While some see potential and brilliance, the consensus is clear: it fails to capture the emotional impact of its predecessor, making it a missed opportunity for the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" showcases a mixed reception, with several critics highlighting its intriguing narrative elements and character development. Many reviewers, such as Daily Star and Shacknews, praised the story for being engaging and rich in mystery, emphasizing the emotional depth that Max Caulfield's journey brings as she navigates the complexities of adulthood and the consequences of her past choices. Critics like COGconnected and GamingBolt noted the well-developed characters and the compelling twists that enhance the narrative, suggesting that the story does have moments of brilliance that resonate with players. The exploration of themes such as grief, regret, and moral ambiguity, as noted by Player 2 and Hey Poor Player, adds layers to the storytelling, making it a worthwhile experience for some fans. However, the negatives surrounding the story are quite pronounced, with many critics expressing disappointment in its execution. GameGrin and Worth Playing criticized the writing for its lack of cohesion and depth, particularly in character development and plot twists, which left fans of the original game feeling let down. The introduction of a dual-timeline mechanic, as mentioned by Noisy Pixel and RPG Fan, was seen as confusing and poorly executed, leading to a disjointed experience that failed to connect with players on an emotional level. Additionally, several reviews pointed out unresolved plot points and inconsistencies in character behavior, as highlighted by Metro GameCentral and Guardian, which detracted from the overall narrative experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" has its share of engaging moments and interesting themes, it ultimately falls short of the emotional impact and narrative cohesion that defined its predecessor. Many reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Eurogamer Germany, noted that despite the potential for a compelling story, the execution left much to be desired, resulting in a game that feels like a missed opportunity. The mixed reviews reflect a divide between those who appreciate the narrative's ambition and those who feel it fails to deliver on its promises, indicating that while the game may attract some fans, it does not fully resonate with the broader audience that cherished the original series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Life is Strange: Double Exposure delivers a mix of innovative mechanics and narrative depth, with critics praising Max's time-bending abilities and the dual timelines for enriching the story. However, many feel the execution falls flat, citing shallow gameplay, linear exploration, and tedious fetch quests that hinder immersion. While some appreciate the choice-driven elements, the overall consensus is that the game lacks the depth and excitement of its predecessors, leaving players wanting more in terms of engagement and meaningful choice.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Life is Strange: Double Exposure has garnered some praise for its innovative mechanics and narrative-driven approach. Critics like Impulsegamer highlight the clever use of Max's new time-bending ability to navigate between timelines, which adds depth to puzzle-solving and significantly impacts the plot. Similarly, GINX TV appreciates the refreshing experience brought by the mechanics of switching between Living and Dead timelines, enhancing the overall narrative. The integration of new powers, as noted by Eurogamer Germany, is seen as a positive evolution of the gameplay, maintaining a consistent chapter-based storytelling format while allowing for engaging interactions with characters and the environment. However, many reviewers express dissatisfaction with the gameplay's execution, pointing out several shortcomings. For instance, Pocket Tactics criticizes the lack of depth and consequences associated with Max's new powers, stating that the absence of her original time-rewind ability diminishes the overall engagement. GameGrin describes the gameplay as unexciting, primarily relying on choice-based mechanics that fail to captivate players. Critics like Noisy Pixel and SECTOR.sk also mention the linearity and repetitiveness of exploration, which detracts from immersion and player engagement. Additionally, RPG Fan points out that the gameplay is bogged down by fetch quests, turning sections into tedious chores and hindering narrative momentum. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for Life is Strange: Double Exposure's gameplay. While some, like GamingBolt and COGconnected, appreciate the engaging choice-and-consequence mechanics and the clever integration of new abilities, many others feel that the gameplay lacks the depth and innovation of previous installments. The repetitive nature of puzzles and exploration, as highlighted by critics such as Daily Star and Worth Playing, suggests that the game may not fully meet the expectations set by its predecessors. Ultimately, while there are elements of creativity and narrative depth, the gameplay experience appears to be marred by issues of pacing, engagement, and meaningful player agency.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Life is Strange: Double Exposure boasts stunning visuals and realistic character animations, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Critics praise its emotional depth and vibrant aesthetics, but performance issues plague the Nintendo Switch version and some high-end consoles, with reports of glitches and texture problems. While it represents a significant leap in visual storytelling for the franchise, technical shortcomings prevent it from fully realizing its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Life is Strange: Double Exposure have received a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers, particularly those who played on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Critics such as IGN Brasil and Eurogamer Germany highlight the game's impressive visuals, commending the realistic character animations and beautiful environments. The use of Unreal Engine 5 has been noted for enhancing the visual fidelity, with Gameblog.fr and Daily Star emphasizing the stunning motion capture technology that contributes to natural character expressions. Additionally, the vibrant color palettes and distinct aesthetics between the two timelines—the 'living' and 'dead' worlds—have been lauded for their ability to evoke emotional responses, as seen in the analyses by COGconnected and God is a Geek. However, not all feedback is positive, particularly regarding performance on the Nintendo Switch and some aspects of the graphics on higher-end consoles. Critics from GameOver.gr and Nintendo Life express disappointment with the overall graphical quality on the Switch, citing issues like awkward lighting, low resolution, and stuttery frames that detract from the experience. Even on more powerful platforms, some reviews from GamingBolt and Player 2 mention technical issues such as texture pop-in and animation bugs that can disrupt immersion. The inconsistency in character models and occasional graphical glitches have also been pointed out by Vandal and GamesRadar+, indicating that while the game has visual appeal, it is marred by technical shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Life is Strange: Double Exposure presents a visually appealing experience, particularly on high-end platforms, with significant improvements in character animations and environmental design. However, the game is not without its flaws, especially on the Nintendo Switch, where performance issues are more pronounced. While many critics, such as Xbox Tavern and Dexerto, celebrate the game's artistic direction and emotional depth, the presence of technical glitches and optimization problems leaves a mixed impression. As a result, the game is seen as a step forward in visual storytelling for the franchise, albeit with room for improvement in execution.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Life is Strange: Double Exposure boasts a praised soundtrack that enhances the game's emotional depth, with standout original music and indie tracks. However, critics note technical flaws like poor sound mixing and disconnect between voice acting and character models, leading to a mixed reception. While many enjoy the audio experience, persistent issues may leave some players disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Life is Strange: Double Exposure have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game's soundtrack for its ability to enhance the atmosphere and emotional depth of the narrative. For instance, IGN lauded the original music by Tessa Rose Jackson as "exceptional," effectively capturing the emotions and tone of each reality. Similarly, Eurogamer Germany noted that the soundtrack complements the overall experience, while XboxAddict highlighted the immersive quality of the soundscape, which includes "great indie music" and "well above-average voice acting." Critics like COGconnected and Daily Star emphasized the significant role that the music plays in creating the game's atmosphere and pacing, with several mentioning the well-chosen indie tracks that resonate with the game's themes. However, not all feedback was entirely positive, as some critics pointed out notable issues that detracted from the overall experience. Nintendo Life expressed concerns over the disconnect between the excellent voice acting and the character models, which could undermine immersion. Additionally, several reviewers, including Games.cz and RPG Fan, highlighted persistent audio issues, such as volume inconsistencies and sound mixing problems, which disrupted the overall experience. Gameblog.fr even stated that the soundtrack attempted to replicate the success of earlier titles but ultimately fell short, lacking memorable moments that players could connect with. These criticisms indicate that while the music and sound design are generally well-received, there are technical shortcomings that some players may find frustrating. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Life is Strange: Double Exposure features a strong soundtrack that significantly enhances the emotional and atmospheric experience of the game. While the majority of reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and XGN, praised the soundtrack as a standout feature, the recurring issues with sound mixing and voice acting disconnect noted by others suggest that the game's sound design, while commendable, is not without its flaws. As a result, the game's audio elements are seen as a mixed bag: they elevate the narrative and emotional stakes for many players, but technical inconsistencies may leave some feeling less satisfied with the overall auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Life is Strange: Double Exposure is highly praised for its emotional depth and character development, particularly Hannah Telle's return as Max Caulfield. Critics commend the diverse cast for bringing well-written characters to life, enhancing player connection. However, some noted issues with character chemistry and stilted dialogue that occasionally disrupt immersion. Overall, the voice acting stands out as a major highlight of the game, despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Life is Strange: Double Exposure has garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and XboxAddict, highlighted the voice acting as a standout feature, noting its ability to convey genuine emotion and contribute significantly to character development. Critics such as Eurogamer Germany and Daily Star emphasized that the performances enhance the narrative's emotional depth, with Hannah Telle's return as Max Caulfield receiving particular praise for adding continuity and richness to her character. The diverse cast, as noted by GamingBolt, brings well-written characters to life, fostering a connection with the audience. Additionally, the French voice acting has been well-received, adding to the overall experience for players in that language, as pointed out by Jeuxvideo.com. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics did express concerns regarding certain aspects of the voice acting. Noisy Pixel pointed out weak character chemistry and forced dialogue that detracted from the connection with the new cast. Shacknews also mentioned instances of stilted dialogue, which impacted immersion during conversations. Furthermore, while most performances were praised, Vandal noted that one character's portrayal felt overly exaggerated, suggesting inconsistencies in the delivery across the cast. These critiques indicate that while the majority of the voice acting is well-executed, there are moments that could have benefitted from more natural dialogue and chemistry among characters. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Life is Strange: Double Exposure. With a majority praising the performances for their emotional resonance and character depth, the game is recognized for its strong vocal performances, particularly from returning cast members like Hannah Telle. Critics such as GamesRadar+ and Movies Games and Tech echoed this sentiment, affirming that the voice acting significantly enhances the overall experience. While some criticisms regarding dialogue and character interactions exist, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the voice acting quality, marking it as one of the game's most commendable aspects.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Life is Strange: Double Exposure" shows technical improvements on platforms like Nintendo Switch and PS5, with enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay. However, widespread performance issues plague all platforms, especially Xbox Series X and lower-end PCs, causing major bugs and crashes that disrupt the gaming experience. Critics agree that while there are positives, the game's technical performance is inconsistent and requires further refinement to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

Positives by Platform Across various platforms, "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" showcases some commendable technical improvements. On the Nintendo Switch, GameOver.gr noted enhancements in facial animations, suggesting a positive step forward in visual fidelity. Critics on the Xbox Series X, including IGN Brasil, pointed out that technical performance has improved from earlier versions, with fewer issues like texture loading delays. LevelUp reported a smooth experience with no bugs, highlighting the game’s overall stability on this platform. Meanwhile, on the PlayStation 5, several reviewers, including Gameblog.fr and Digital Chumps, praised the game for running smoothly with only minor technical flaws, indicating a generally solid experience. The PC version also received positive remarks, with Adventure Gamers stating it is generally stable and provides a smooth user experience. Negatives by Platform However, technical performance issues are prevalent across all platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Pocket Tactics expressed concerns over significant technical issues, including long loading screens and poor performance, which detract from the overall experience. On the Xbox Series X, Noisy Pixel and Shacknews reported severe performance issues, including game-breaking bugs and frequent crashes, which significantly disrupt gameplay. Furthermore, Xbox Tavern mentioned that several bugs hinder the storytelling flow. On PlayStation 5, the situation is similarly troubling, with critics like RPG Fan and Player 2 citing numerous bugs that affect gameplay, including audio dropouts and character model problems. Additionally, MeuPlayStation highlighted a specific audio bug that requires a restart to resolve, indicating a frustrating experience. The PC version is not without its flaws either, as Vgames noted significant performance issues on lower-end hardware, which negatively impacts the experience. Overall Consensus The overall consensus among critics across all platforms reflects a mixed sentiment regarding the technical performance of "Life is Strange: Double Exposure." While there are notable improvements in certain areas, such as facial animations on the Nintendo Switch and smoother gameplay on PS5, the presence of significant technical issues, particularly on the Xbox Series X and lower-end PC hardware, casts a shadow over the experience. Critics like Shacknews and RPG Fan emphasize the disruptive nature of these bugs, suggesting that despite some positive aspects, the game’s technical performance remains inconsistent and often frustrating. As a result, while the game has potential, the technical shortcomings across platforms indicate a need for further refinement and patching to enhance the overall player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Life is Strange: Double Exposure" features some promising replay elements, like its decision-making system and character connections, praised by critics for potential engagement. However, many argue its replay value is hindered by weak emotional stakes and a lack of impactful choices, leading to a general consensus that, despite some redeeming qualities, the game falls short of encouraging extensive replay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" present a mixed but somewhat optimistic view from several critics. Some reviewers, such as Eurogamer Germany and IGN, highlight the game's decision-making system as a key factor that encourages replayability, allowing players to explore various outcomes and paths. IGN Brasil echoes this sentiment, noting that fans of the franchise can reconnect with familiar characters and stories, which adds to the allure of replaying. Additionally, COGconnected and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the impact of player choices on relationships and interactions, suggesting that these elements could motivate players to experience the game multiple times. On the other hand, numerous critics express concerns about the game's replay value, pointing to significant limitations. Pocket Tactics and LevelUp specifically mention a lack of impactful decisions and character relationships, which diminishes the incentive to replay. SECTOR.sk and Xbox Tavern further argue that the emotional stakes in player choices are insufficient, leading to a lack of motivation for revisiting the game. Critics like RPG Fan and Wccftech also note that the absence of significant narrative divergence and consequences for choices makes replaying less appealing. This sentiment is echoed across multiple platforms, indicating a consensus that while there are some avenues for replay, they are not robust enough to encourage repeated playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" has some elements that could foster replayability—such as its branching narratives and character dynamics—these features are undermined by a lack of emotional depth and significant consequences for player choices. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Guardian point out that while the game sets up for potential sequels, the inconsistencies and limitations in gameplay mechanics may deter players from wanting to replay the game extensively. Thus, while there are encouraging aspects for fans of the series, many reviewers ultimately conclude that the replay value is limited, making it less enticing for a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In reviewing the opinions of various critics on "Life is Strange: Double Exposure," it is evident that many found notable positives within the game. Critics like COGconnected and IGN praised the game for its strong writing and character interactions, highlighting how it captures the emotional essence of the original series while introducing new elements. The game’s visuals and soundtrack received commendations from multiple reviewers, with Metro GameCentral and Daily Star noting the impressive audio-visual experience. Additionally, some critics, such as Gamer Escape and GamingBolt, emphasized the captivating narrative and engaging gameplay, suggesting that the game successfully continues Max Caulfield's story and offers a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and series fans. However, the criticisms surrounding "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" are significant and widespread. Many reviewers pointed to issues such as poor character development, confusing plot choices, and technical problems. RPG Fan and GameGrin expressed disappointment in the game’s narrative coherence, with GameGrin labeling the story as nonsensical and undermining its positive aspects. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Dexerto echoed these sentiments, stating that the game struggles to deliver a compelling narrative and lacks the charm of its predecessors. Additionally, several reviewers, including Worth Playing and IGN Brasil, noted that the game feels like an unnecessary sequel that fails to live up to the legacy of the original title, with many suggesting that it does not provide enough player agency or impactful choices. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide in opinions regarding the game's success as a sequel. While some, like Hey Poor Player and IGN, hailed it as a strong continuation of the franchise, others, such as Worth Playing and RPG Fan, found it lacking in several key areas. The game appears to resonate well with a segment of fans who appreciate its emotional depth and nostalgic elements, as highlighted by Player 2 and Digital Chumps. However, the technical issues and narrative shortcomings have left many feeling underwhelmed, leading to a general sentiment that, despite its merits, "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" does not fully meet the high expectations set by its predecessors.

TL;DR

"Life is Strange: Double Exposure" receives mixed reviews—while praised for strong writing, emotional depth, and visual appeal, it faces harsh criticism for poor character development, confusing plot, and technical issues. Some fans appreciate its nostalgic elements, but many argue it fails to live up to the original series, feeling like an unnecessary sequel lacking impactful choices.

MONSTER

Reviews

172 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

Xbox Series X

Oct 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer expresses high satisfaction with the game, considering it potentially the best in the series and a strong contender for the best games of 2024, giving it a perfect score.

100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Oct 31, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite its flaws, the game resonates deeply with the reviewer, highlighting its character depth and exploration of complex themes. It is a personal and impactful experience, particularly for fans of the series.

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Movies Games and Tech

PlayStation 5

Nov 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure sets a new benchmark for the franchise with its thought-provoking story, engaging gameplay, stunning graphics, and exceptional soundtrack, despite minor sound issues.

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TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Oct 29, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is a significant improvement for Deck Nine, showcasing a mature narrative and engaging gameplay that makes it a worthwhile experience.

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GamingBolt

Xbox Series X

Oct 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is an excellent sophomore outing for beloved protagonist Max Caulfield, justifying its existence with a gripping story and engaging gameplay, despite some occasional writing issues and technical rough edges.

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IGN

Xbox Series X

Oct 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is praised for living up to the original, offering a fresh direction, and improving on nearly every aspect, making it a highly recommended experience.

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Adventure Gamers

Jan 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life Is Strange: Double Exposure meets the expectations of the series with compelling characters, strong writing, and an emotionally resonant story, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and series fans.

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is praised for capturing the emotional essence of the series while introducing new elements and mysteries, leaving the reviewer excited for the future of the franchise.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Oct 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure is a brilliant continuation of Max's story, offering a mix of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, supported by strong characters, visuals, and music, despite occasional gameplay clarity issues.

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Gamer Escape

Oct 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Life is Strange: Double Exposure successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing new elements, making it a worthy addition to the series.