Life is Strange fans criticize $30 upgrade to play new game’s early chapters two weeks early

Life Is Strange fans have criticized the game’s Ultimate Edition, which offers “advanced access to Chapters 1 and 2” two weeks before its main release date.

It was announced last night, Life is Strange: Double Exposure sees the return of the series’ original protagonist Max Caulfield, now all grown up.But still dealing with a dead best friend.

Double Exposure is set to launch for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox Series X/S on October 29, priced at $50. But if you buy the more expensive Ultimate Edition, you can play its early chapters for $80 on October 15.

The Ultimate Edition also includes a range of alternate cosmetic options for Max, as well as an additional side-quest relating to cats.

As well as being an attempt to extract more money from fans, it has also been criticized for the inevitable story reveals that would hit the internet once some players gained access to the early parts of Double Exposure.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to join the conversation about this unforgettable supernatural murder mystery,” said Square Enix marketing for the game’s Ultimate Edition on Steam.

For a game designed as a completely narrative experience, these concerns are perhaps not surprising – and there have been negative reactions to it on Reddit and social media.

One fan said: “People will buy it on day one because they have the money and they love Max.” wrote“This practice is much hated, especially in this genre where spoilers can ruin the experience.”

“I will be pre-ordering the Ultimate Edition to avoid getting bogged down in spoilers,” another fan wrote. “This is a very bad decision by Square Enix.”

More details about Life Is Strange: Double Exposure will be revealed later this week, on Thursday, June 13, in a video stream that will reveal more about the game.