Life Is Strange - Dark Room
Overview -
'Dark Room' is the fourth and penultimate episode in the 'Life Is Strange' series, following 'Cocoon', 'Out of Time', and 'Chaos Theory'.
Video Review
While textures and effects are at the same level they’ve always been, visual artifacts and clipping are somewhat reduced in this episode. Dontnod likes to use Max’s infatuation with photography to constantly add small, picturesque objects into the frame, which can be discovered if you look closely (these photo ops also serve as a collectible).
Audio Review
The voice acting is good as usual. The script is decent, but sometimes the dialogue makes me wince. Max is adorable, but also very awkward. I love the indie/folk rock soundtrack and the fragile, piano-heavy score. There are some mild issues with lip syncing but otherwise few problems in the soundscape.
Final Thoughts
'Darkroom' is not quite as substantial as the last episode, but 'Life Is Strange' has real potential for a strong, surprising finish. This episode sags in the middle but the choices that are offered to the player are still difficult, and it’s a good thing when an episodic game torments its players with self-doubt after tough decisions. The series has been a capable story thus far and I’m very curious to see how Dontnod finishes everything.