Just finished my second playthrough in 2024 after not touching the game since the original release of episode 5.
I'm so torn on this game. I like LiS and BTS, haven't played TC yet. I'm playing through the series again (and TC for the first time) to prepare for Double Exposure, and I was thinking about if I really wanted to play 2 again. Just thinking about it made me feel drained, exhausted, and depressed. In the end I decided that I probably should, and that it was worth a second look.

Well, it's about as bleak as I remembered. I just feel drained, and like all that work was for nothing in the end. None of the endings are truly happy - there's no winning here. No enduring all of the crap along the way and coming out stronger on the other end. The best ending is probably Parting Ways, and even then it sucks for obvious reasons.

Here's the thing... I don't mind a tragic story. I really don't. I don't even mind bad endings, if they're done right. But that's the thing... the entire story is kicked off by a mistake that really shouldn't have been made. I could never agree with the decision to run away like they did. The longer things went on and the worse they got, all it did was remind me how there's no reason for any of it to be happening in the first place. I was simply forced to go along with this decision, and made to witness all the beatings and prejudice thrown Sean's way over the course of the story. I understand there would be no game if this didn't happen, but it really destroys the story for me. It's all needless pain and suffering, and for what? A collection of endings on a sliding scale of terrible to bittersweet, at best - and even then it's more bitter than it is sweet for me.
Because of this and my experience both times playing through this game, I can't in good conscience recommend it. I have no desire to witness needless tragedy with no light at the end of the tunnel.

Another great game from the Life is Strange series.

Good scenery, great soundtracks, and a pretty decent story. As someone that preferred the previous Life is Strange games, it was great to see small bits from the previous games appear in here.

Can be a bit mediocre and boring at times and limited in your choices, but still manages to not disappoint overall. An emotional few endings based on your choices too.

Hot take but Life is Strange 2 is the best in the franchise, It has it's flaws such as side characters being non-existent but I think it helps to show that the brothers are on their own growing their bond. Story is a bit longer than what I wanted but it's very good, goofy at times. I highly suggest playing this game. (Can't wait for LiS4)