Polygon.com / 02.05.25

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage recaptures the spirit of OG Life Is Strange

Witnessing the trajectory of Life Is Strange has been nothing short of remarkable. From its humble beginnings in 2015 to the rich tapestry of sequels, spinoffs, and spiritual successors, DontNod Entertainment carved out a distinctive niche in the realm of character-driven games. Each installment whether crafted by DontNod or Deck Nine brings a fresh dose of Twin Peaks-inspired supernatural intrigue, heartfelt narratives that balance between endearing sincerity and occasional cringe, and a celebration of connections among queer and ethnic folks on the margins of society. Still, the games have grappled with an identity crisis, with its latest effort from Deck Nine veering away from the indie film charm of its predecessors into a Marvel-esque spectacle that feels disconnected from what initially endeared it to fans. Fortunately, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage not only recaptures the essence of the original Life Is Strange but also carves out its own genuine, compelling path, standing proudly...
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