Double Exposure Overextends the Marvel Paradigm

Heads up, there are MAJOR SPOILERS ahead for Life is Strange: Double Exposure.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure deserves a nod for daring to bring Max Caulfield back into the spotlight after almost a decade. Revisiting a cherished classic by Square Enix and expanding its narrative was a bold move, one that likely divided fans. Regardless of where you stand on it, such risks often pave the way for artistic innovation, even when some elements, like the treatment of Arcadia Bay and Chloe, might not have resonated well with everyone.

However, where Double Exposure stumbles is in its reluctance to embrace the brave storytelling it promised. As you wrap up its narrative, it feels less like a grand finale and more like you’re left hanging at a Marvel movie’s post-credit scene. Reintroducing Max with the pressure of a future return—something unheard of in the series so far—gives off a distinctly “Marvelized” vibe. Now, don’t get me wrong, the success of Marvel movies can be attributed to their storytelling, from which there’s a lot to learn, but it doesn’t necessarily gel with Life is Strange’s DNA. The idea of a superhero ensemble seems at odds with what Life is Strange represents.

### The Life is Strange Universe Doesn’t Need to Be the ‘LSU’

It seems like universes are trending everywhere these days. Life is Strange, from the start, connected its universe with characters like Max, Daniel, Alex, and now Safi inhabiting the same world. Yet, these characters never needed to cross each other’s paths. The lore hinged on individual stories, exploring how superpowers can isolate and affect personal relationships, woven with rich social commentary. The tease for a collective appearance in a future installment dilutes this theme profoundly. Max isn’t meant to be the Captain America of this saga, yet the narrative finds itself backed into a corner, as entirely new faces might fail to tug the emotional strings the plot requires.

Having powers has always come at a price in Life is Strange. Max’s time-traveling abilities brought trauma and catastrophic consequences. Sean and Daniel’s endings penned bittersweet tales, posing them as potential outcasts or, worse, fugitives. Alex’s journey in True Colors revolved around overcoming isolation and hurt, with her path reflecting different life choices—be it bonding with Haven or venturing out alone.

How future games will address the multiple possible endings is bound to stir some debate. Fans might find peace only in accepting the tough choice of canonization, while others might be disappointed even with the “best ending” set for their favorite character.

### The LSU Civil War

Now, Safi’s out there seemingly forming a sort of superhero league. Her interactions with Max hint at an inevitable clash—a civil war among those with extraordinary abilities. Emulating Marvel’s strategy might be the root of the issue here. Marvel’s success with interconnected storylines and multi-character sagas was meticulously built over time. Life is Strange built its identity on stories standing alone, turning a mirror towards the diverse experiences of life, all seasoned with a supernatural twist. Alex’s ability to tap into empathy was the franchise’s subtle power long before characters exhibited literal powers.

By weaving in seasoned characters for emotional depth, the essence of their standalone stories risks being compromised. The narrative shouldn’t force Max into a Captain America role. Life is Strange isn’t the MCU; yet, the conclusion of Double Exposure steers dangerously close to Marvel territory. A promise of Max’s return, a potential superpowered clash, and a post-credit style ending all scream Marvel. I truly hope the upcoming chapters in Life is Strange can embrace their roots while navigating these new storylines, but given the current trajectory, a dose of skepticism isn’t unfounded.

With high expectations and a devoted fan base, it’s imperative for the series to strike a balance, honoring its distinctive storytelling while daring to explore new horizons.