In a recent interview with GamesRadar, Michel Koch, the director of Life is Strange, shared insights into the original design concept for the game and how it was initially envisioned as a standalone experience. Square Enix, the publisher, initially wanted just one game, but the success of the first installment changed the course of the game’s universe.

Key Points:

1. Simple One-and-Done Design:
   • The original plan for Life is Strange was to create a single, standalone game with the possibility of expansions or additional content.
   • The intention was not to write the story or characters with future developments in mind.
2. Square Enix’s Initial Vision:
   • Square Enix, the publisher, only planned for one standalone game in the Life is Strange series.
   • The game’s design did not account for potential sequels or continuation of the narrative beyond the initial release.
3. Unexpected Success:
   • Following the success of the first game, Square Enix reconsidered its initial plan and expressed interest in expanding the universe.
4. Growing Life is Strange Universe:
   • The unexpected success paved the way for additional studios to work on spin-off titles, such as 2021’s Life is Strange: True Colors.
   • Dontnod, the original developer, crafted a follow-up story set in the Life is Strange universe, featuring new characters and locations.
5. Transition for Dontnod:
   • While Dontnod worked on subsequent titles in the series, the studio has since moved on and is developing a new IP named Lost Records.

The journey from a planned standalone experience to a growing Life is Strange universe reflects the series’ evolution and the impact of player engagement. The success of the initial game prompted Square Enix to explore further narrative possibilities, resulting in a series that continues to captivate audiences with its unique storytelling and characters.

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