The Life is Strange series has been a beloved and critically acclaimed franchise in the world of gaming since its debut in 2015. With its unique narrative-driven gameplay, relatable characters, and dramatic plot twists, the series has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide. However, as the years go by, fans are left wondering: will there be a Life is Strange 3?
The Success of the Previous Installments
Before diving into the possibility of a third installment, it’s essential to look back at the success of the previous games in the series. The original Life is Strange was released in 2015 to critical acclaim, with many praising its engaging story, lovable protagonist Max Caulfield, and the game’s ability to tackle tough themes like bullying, suicide, and friendship.
The game’s success led to the development of a prequel, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, which was released in 2017. Although it received mixed reviews, the game still maintained a loyal fan base and did well commercially.
In 2018, Dontnod Entertainment, the developers of the original game, released Life is Strange 2, which introduced a new cast of characters and a fresh storyline. Although it received generally positive reviews, some critics felt that it didn’t quite live up to the standards set by the first game.
Despite this, the Life is Strange series has maintained a dedicated fan base, and many are eagerly awaiting news on a potential third installment.
The Current State of the Series
As of now, there has been no official announcement from Square Enix, the publisher of the series, or Dontnod Entertainment regarding a third installment. However, there have been some hints and rumors that suggest that Life is Strange 3 might be in the works.
In a 2020 interview with Game Informer, Oskar Guilbert, the CEO of Dontnod Entertainment, mentioned that the studio was working on a new project, but didn’t reveal any details. When asked about the possibility of a new Life is Strange game, Guilbert stated that the studio “loves the IP” and that they “would be happy to revisit it.”
Additionally, in 2020, Square Enix filed a trademark application for “Life is Strange 3,” which sparked speculation among fans that a new game was in development. However, it’s essential to note that trademark applications don’t always guarantee the development of a new game.
The Potential Plot of Life is Strange 3
If Life is Strange 3 were to happen, the possibilities for the plot are endless. One potential direction the game could take is exploring the aftermath of the events of Life is Strange 2. The ending of the second game left many questions unanswered, and a third installment could delve deeper into the consequences of the choices made by the protagonist, Sean Diaz.
Another direction the game could take is introducing a new protagonist and storyline, potentially set in a different location. This would allow the developers to explore new themes and ideas while maintaining the core elements that make the series so beloved.
The Impact of the Series on the Gaming Industry
The Life is Strange series has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the realm of narrative-driven games. The series’ focus on character development, player choice, and storytelling has raised the bar for other games in the genre.
The series has also been praised for its representation and diversity, tackling topics like mental health, LGBTQ+ relationships, and social issues. This attention to detail has helped to create a more inclusive gaming environment and has inspired other developers to follow suit.
The Influence of Life is Strange on Indie Games
The success of Life is Strange has also had a significant impact on the indie game scene. The series’ narrative-driven approach and focus on character development have inspired many indie developers to create their own unique stories.
Games like Tell Me Why, What Remains of Edith Finch, and Firewatch have drawn inspiration from Life is Strange’s storytelling and character-driven gameplay. These games have gone on to receive critical acclaim and have helped to shape the indie game landscape.
The Future of Life is Strange
Although there has been no official announcement regarding Life is Strange 3, the signs are promising. With the series’ dedicated fan base, critical acclaim, and influence on the gaming industry, it’s hard to imagine that the franchise will be left dormant for long.
In the meantime, fans can continue to speculate about the possibilities of a new game. Whether it’s a direct sequel, a spin-off, or a completely new direction, one thing is certain: the Life is Strange series has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
| Game Title | Release Year | Critic Score (Metacritic) |
|---|---|---|
| Life is Strange | 2015 | 85 |
| Life is Strange: Before the Storm | 2017 | 73 |
| Life is Strange 2 | 2018 | 76 |
In conclusion, while there has been no official confirmation of Life is Strange 3, the signs are promising, and the franchise’s impact on the gaming industry is undeniable. Whether or not a new game is in development, one thing is certain: the Life is Strange series has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate gamers for years to come.
What is Life is Strange and why is it so popular?
Life is Strange is an episodic graphic adventure game developed by Dontnod Entertainment and published by Square Enix. The game follows the story of Max Caulfield, a high school student with the ability to rewind time, as she navigates her way through a series of mysterious events in her small town. The game’s unique narrative, relatable characters, and engaging gameplay mechanics made it an instant hit among gamers and critics alike.
The game’s popularity can be attributed to its ability to tackle complex and mature themes such as identity, friendship, and the consequences of one’s actions. The game’s relatable protagonist and authentic storytelling also resonated with players, making it a beloved franchise among gamers. The game’s success led to the creation of a prequel, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, and a sequel, Life is Strange 2, both of which received critical acclaim.
What is the story of Life is Strange 2?
Life is Strange 2 follows the story of two brothers, Sean and Daniel Diaz, who are forced to flee their home after a tragic incident. The game takes players on a journey across the United States as the brothers navigate their way through a series of challenges and encounters with different characters. The game explores themes of identity, family, and the consequences of one’s actions, similar to the first game.
Throughout their journey, players are tasked with making difficult choices that have a significant impact on the story and its multiple endings. The game’s narrative is heavily focused on the bond between the two brothers and the struggles they face as they try to find a new home and rebuild their lives. The game received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling, characters, and gameplay mechanics, solidifying the Life is Strange franchise as a beloved and respected series in the gaming industry.
Will there be a Life is Strange 3?
There has been no official announcement from Square Enix or Dontnod Entertainment regarding a potential third installment in the Life is Strange series. However, the ending of Life is Strange 2 left players with many unanswered questions, leaving room for a potential sequel or spin-off.
Given the game’s success and the franchise’s dedicated fan base, it is possible that Square Enix may consider developing another installment in the series. However, as of now, there is no concrete evidence or information available to confirm or deny the existence of Life is Strange 3.
What about the rumors of a Life is Strange 3?
There have been several rumors and leaks circulating online suggesting that a Life is Strange 3 is in development. Some of these rumors point to a potential reveal at gaming conventions such as E3 or Gamescom, while others claim that the game may be in development for next-generation consoles.
However, it is essential to take these rumors with a grain of salt, as there has been no official confirmation from Square Enix or Dontnod Entertainment. Until an official announcement is made, these rumors remain speculative and should be treated as such.
What do fans want from Life is Strange 3?
Fans of the series have been vocal about what they would like to see from a potential Life is Strange 3. Some have expressed their desire to see the return of Max Caulfield, the protagonist of the original game, while others have requested a new protagonist with a unique ability or power.
Others have called for a game that explores new themes and settings, such as a game set in a different country or culture. Some fans have also expressed their desire for more replayability and branching storylines, allowing for a more immersive and dynamic gaming experience.
Can Life is Strange 3 live up to the expectations of fans?
Given the success of the previous games in the series, there is a lot of pressure on Square Enix and Dontnod Entertainment to deliver a game that meets the high expectations of fans. Meeting these expectations will require the development team to create a game that not only builds upon the franchise’s strengths but also introduces new and innovative gameplay mechanics and narrative elements.
If done correctly, Life is Strange 3 has the potential to be a critical and commercial success, solidifying the franchise’s position as one of the most beloved and respected in the gaming industry. However, if the game fails to meet expectations, it could lead to disappointment and disillusionment among fans.
Is there still hope for Life is Strange 3?
Despite the lack of an official announcement, there is still hope for Life is Strange 3. The franchise’s dedicated fan base continues to express their love and enthusiasm for the series, and Square Enix may take this into consideration when deciding whether to greenlight another installment.
Additionally, the success of other episodic graphic adventure games, such as Telltale’s The Walking Dead, has shown that there is still a market for games of this type. If Square Enix and Dontnod Entertainment can create a game that builds upon the franchise’s strengths and introduces new and innovative elements, there is still hope for Life is Strange 3 to become a reality.