Square Enix Seeks Feedback on Life is Strange After Low Sales

Square Enix Seeks Fan Feedback on Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Following the underwhelming reception of Life is Strange: Double Exposure, Square Enix has launched a comprehensive survey to gather insights from fans. Released in October 2024, this latest installment in the beloved narrative-driven series continued the story of Max Caulfield, the protagonist from the original 2015 Life is Strange. Despite high expectations, Life is Strange: Double Exposure received lukewarm reviews, with the PS5 version earning a 73 critic score and a 4.2 user score on Metacritic. Many fans and critics pointed to the game's major story decisions as a significant factor in its disappointing performance.

The situation worsened when developer Deck Nine Studios announced layoffs in December 2024, underscoring the game's commercial struggles. In response, Square Enix has sent out a 15-minute questionnaire to Life is Strange fans, aiming to understand the game's shortcomings. The survey delves into various aspects of Life is Strange: Double Exposure, including its narrative, gameplay mechanics, and technical performance. Crucially, it also asks fans whether they felt the game was worth purchasing and if their experience has impacted their interest in future entries in the series.

Square Enix Wants to Know Why Life is Strange: Double Exposure Flopped

Square Enix had anticipated a much warmer reception for Life is Strange: Double Exposure, making the survey's findings pivotal for the company to pinpoint where the game faltered. In contrast, Deck Nine's previous title, Life is Strange: True Colors, was celebrated for its storytelling and emotional depth, with protagonist Alex Chen resonating strongly with players—a connection that Life is Strange: Double Exposure struggled to replicate with its characters.

Looking ahead, Life is Strange: Double Exposure did introduce plot points that could be explored in future games. However, the feedback Square Enix is collecting from the community could significantly shape the direction of upcoming Life is Strange titles. While the balance between fan service and creative integrity remains a topic of debate, the impact of this feedback on the next Life is Strange game will be closely watched.