Several years removed from the last entry, this year marks a return for the Life Is Strange series, ushering in a new remaster collection, as well as the new core entry, Life Is Strange: True Colors. Taking the reins from DONTNOD, True Colors was developed by studio Deck Nine, following protagonist Alex Chen as she investigates her brother’s death through her psychic empathy abilities. Armed with the power to manipulate and experience the emotions of others, players will navigate and converse with the inhabitants of Haven Springs across the game’s five-chapter structure.

As it sees a return for the Life Is Strange games, the release of True Colors certainly carries more than a few expectations with fans. With that said, how is the empathizing with critics? Well, according to emerging reviews, True Colors is holing up quite nicely, with many praising its heartfelt story and character writing that more-or-less lives up to beloved previous Life Is Strange adventures. However, a few outlets also note the experience might be hampered by a few launch-day technical issues.

• Destructoid – 90/100

“Sure, parts of Life is Strange: True Colors are really bleak, but ultimately it’s an uplifting, heartfelt story about what it means to find your own version of home. It tells that story in a way that feels perfectly sincere, which is something that is hard to come by in games nowadays. True Colors has officially redeemed the Life is Strange series in my eyes.”

• Game Informer – 85/100

“True Colors’ writing is so strong that it didn’t need a supernatural ability to tell this story. I laughed, I cried, and the things that stick with me are the moments where Alex is tested and comes into her own. And there’s something special in how True Colors gives you the power to decide her future and what her life needs, making for a memorable ending with a highlight reel of what you envision for the character. Due to all branching choice variations, you can probably get in a few different playthroughs, but the overall message never changes: Don’t give up. It may be a well-worn saying, but it means a lot in Alex Chen’s pained life.”

• Juexvideo.com – 70/100

“Life is Strange: True Colors is an experience that can be appreciated in the sweetness of its journey, sublimated by shimmering colors, animations more accomplished than ever and very beautiful melodies. With this episode, Deck Nine Games chose to explore empathy from top to bottom; a preponderant aspect in the powers granted, the narration and the construction of the characters. The whole provides a very neat adventure on a human level, but which undeniably lacks a certain liveliness in its actions and the unfolding of the plot. The result is an investigation that lacks a certain panache.”

• The Verge – “Relies On Your Investment”

“The anthology format has helped keep Life is Strange fresh across three main entries, but it also comes with a significant risk. This is a series where so much relies on your investment in the characters; these stories work because you want to help characters like Max Caulfield and Sean Diaz live a better life. Luckily, despite a new setting and lead, True Colors has exactly that. I played through the entire thing in two sittings — not because I had to see how it ended, but because I needed to make sure that Alex was alright.”

• True Achievements – 80/100

“With its emotional gut-punching story, memorable and wonderfully crafted characters, and a beautifully designed setting that immerses you deeply into its world, Life is Strange: True Colors is a superb entry into the Life is Strange series. While the game’s conclusion does come just slightly too quickly, and some technical issues spoil the show, you won’t regret experiencing Alex Chen’s story. Simply put, Life is Strange: True Colors is a must-play.”

Life Is Strange: True Colors releases September 10th for Google Stadia, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. What do you think? Are you glad to see the game receive awesome reviews, or are you reserving judgment for your own playthrough? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to follow Don’t Feed the Gamers on Twitter and Facebook to be informed of the latest gaming and entertainment news 24 hours a day!

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