The Life is Strange series has captured the hearts of players around the world with its emotional storytelling, time-bending mechanics, and unforgettable characters. Because the franchise spans multiple games, prequels, sequels, and spin-offs, many fans wonder about the Life is Strange chronological order. Playing the games based on release date is one option, but experiencing the story in timeline order offers a different perspective. Understanding how each title connects in the overall narrative timeline can deepen appreciation for the characters and the choices that shape their lives.
Overview of the Life Is Strange Universe
The Life is Strange franchise is developed primarily by
The games explore themes such as friendship, trauma, identity, family, and supernatural abilities. While each main title introduces new protagonists, certain entries are directly connected, especially those involving Max Caulfield and Chloe Price.
Life Is Strange Chronological Order Explained
If you want to experience the Life is Strange story in chronological order based on in-universe events, the timeline begins before the original 2015 release. Below is the correct narrative sequence.
1. Life Is Strange Before the Storm
In this game, players explore Chloe’s life as she struggles with grief after her father’s death. The story introduces Rachel Amber, a key character whose mysterious disappearance drives much of the original game’s plot. Playing Before the Storm first gives deeper emotional context to Chloe’s personality and relationships.
2. The Farewell Bonus Episode
The Farewell episode, included in the deluxe edition of Before the Storm, actually takes place even earlier, around 2008. It features a younger Max Caulfield and Chloe spending one last day together before Max moves away from Arcadia Bay.
Although released later, this short chapter fits chronologically before Before the Storm’s main events. It provides important emotional background that strengthens the bond between the two central characters.
3. Life Is Strange (Season 1)
This entry is the emotional core of the franchise. The player’s choices heavily influence the outcome, especially in the dramatic final episode. The events of this game ripple into later titles in subtle but meaningful ways.
4. The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit
The story centers on Chris Eriksen, a young boy who uses his imagination to cope with personal struggles. While it may seem separate at first, it directly connects to the next main installment in the series.
5. Life Is Strange 2
Although the story focuses on new characters, there are references to the events of Arcadia Bay. Depending on choices made in the original Life is Strange, certain details in this sequel may vary, reinforcing the shared universe concept.
6. Life Is Strange True Colors
While largely a standalone story set in Haven Springs, True Colors includes subtle connections to previous games. The emotional themes remain consistent with the franchise’s identity, even as new characters take center stage.
Release Order vs Chronological Order
Some players prefer to experience the series in release order rather than chronological order. Release order allows players to witness how the developers evolved storytelling techniques and gameplay mechanics over time.
However, following the Life is Strange chronological order can create a smoother narrative flow, especially regarding Chloe and Max’s relationship. Starting with Before the Storm and Farewell makes the events of the original game feel even more impactful.
Why Chronological Order Changes the Experience
Playing in timeline order shifts the emotional weight of certain scenes. For example, understanding Chloe’s grief and her bond with Rachel Amber before entering the original Life is Strange can change how players interpret her decisions.
Similarly, finishing the Arcadia Bay storyline before moving into Life Is Strange 2 allows players to better recognize references and thematic continuity.
Key Themes Across the Timeline
Regardless of the order chosen, several themes remain consistent throughout the series
- The consequences of choice
- Friendship and loyalty
- Family bonds
- Identity and personal growth
- Coping with trauma
Each game introduces a new power, but the emotional core remains grounded in human relationships.
Is Chronological Order the Best Way to Play?
There is no single correct way to experience the franchise. For newcomers, starting with the original Life Is Strange may provide the most authentic introduction, since it was designed as the entry point.
For returning players, replaying the series in chronological order can offer fresh insights. Seeing characters at earlier stages of their lives adds depth to later events.
Life Is Strange Chronological Order
The Life is Strange chronological order begins with Farewell, continues through Before the Storm, moves into Life Is Strange, and then progresses to The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit, Life Is Strange 2, and finally True Colors. Experiencing the series this way highlights the emotional development of key characters and reveals how interconnected the stories truly are. Whether you choose release order or timeline order, the franchise delivers a powerful narrative journey filled with meaningful choices and unforgettable moments.