The Original Plan: One-And-Done Game
In an exclusive interview with GamesRadar, Michel Koch, the director of Life is Strange, reveals that the original design for the Life is Strange ‘universe’ was intended to be a simple one-and-done game. Square Enix, the publisher of the 2015 episode title, initially planned for only one standalone game, with no expectations of a follow-up unless the first game exceeded expectations.
Unforeseen Possibilities
Koch explains in the interview that the development team had envisioned a potential for creating more games and expanding upon the Life is Strange world. However, Square Enix had a different vision in mind, limiting the initial release to a single self-contained story. As a result, the team never crafted the characters and storylines with the idea of further expansion.
An Open-Ended Ending
Despite the constraints imposed by Square Enix, Life is Strange offers players two different endings, one of which leaves the door open for future adventures. It was only after the unexpected success of the first game that Square Enix recognized the potential for more and began seeking opportunities to continue the franchise.
Expanding the Universe
The positive response to Life is Strange prompted Square Enix to collaborate with additional studios to create spin-off titles such as the recently released Life is Strange: True Colors in 2021. These games introduce fresh locations, new characters, while retaining the essence of what made the original Life is Strange experience so captivating.
Moving On: A New Chapter
Dontnod, the studio behind the creation of Life is Strange, has decided to step away from the series. Instead, they are currently working on an entirely new intellectual property called Lost Records, which was unveiled at The Game Awards. This move signals a new creative direction for the studio as they explore different storytelling concepts.
Conclusion: A Dynamic Universe
The development journey of the Life is Strange series exemplifies the ever-evolving landscape of video game franchises. From the initial plan of a single game to unexpected success and subsequent spin-offs, the Life is Strange universe has grown to captivate a dedicated fanbase. While Dontnod says goodbye to the beloved series, gamers eagerly await new adventures and narratives that will capture their hearts and minds.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The Evolution of the Life is Strange Universe: From One Game to a Multitude of Adventures
Short analysis: The Life is Strange universe has evolved from a single game to a dynamic and expanding franchise. Despite initial constraints, the success of the first game has led to spin-offs and collaborations with other studios. While the original creators are moving on to new projects, fans can look forward to new adventures in the Life is Strange universe.
