OVerview

Tell Me Why, the most recent game from Life is Strange developer DONTNOD entertainment is something truly special. Similar to its predecessor, it's an episodic adventure with a supernatural twist, while at the same time, one that is very much grounded in reality. It tells a story that at times is difficult to stomach. It's emotionally charged right from the beginning. But it's one you’ll surely be invested in from start to finish. 

- Publisher: Xbox Games Studios

- Developer: DONTNOD Entertainment

- Genre: Adventure, Thriller

- Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Windows

​Story

Tell Me Why is a three episode adventure game taking place in rural Alaska. In the small town of Delos Crossing, twins Alyson and Tyler Ronan reunite after a decade apart. Understandably, the twins are overjoyed to see each other again, but on the sad note of having to go through their belongings of their deceased mother. Over the course of the next couple of hours, you see the twins reunite through their close bonds from when they were children as they go through the experience of learning more about themselves, their memories, and what caused them to separate in the first place. This, along with new information about their mother’s death. Aside from the main mystery, the game also explores harsh, yet extremely relevant topics such as identity, transgender acceptance, anxiety, complicated family relationships, mental health and its criminalization in American society. In short, prepare to be emotionally devastated. And I mean that in the best way possible.

​One of the game's most noteworthy aspects, however, is its portrayal of an authentic-feeling trans character as the lead role. While Tyler’s trans experience does shape his character to some degree, it's not the only thing that defines him in this story. He’s a confident, strong and multilayered character that just happens to be trans. What’s more, the story doesn’t use it as a drama plot device or use some sort of hate crime as a narrative focus. Learning about the twins and exploring their attitudes, fears, relationships and struggles, was absolutely wonderful. Though the presence of a looming mystery to uncover and dark past to unravel was compelling, simply having the two siblings going through the house, talking to their neighbors and trying to pull themselves together and move on was just as engaging (if not more memorable, in my personal opinion). I also found it interesting that the episodes were released only a week apart as opposed to the previous Life is Strange series, which released episodes months apart that were purchased separately. As a result, this allows the climactic buildup for this game to feel much more organized, while leaving just enough room for the player to digest what happened, and speculate on what’s coming next.

Mechanics 

The supernatural element of the game comes with the twins themselves. Together, they can communicate telepathically and show their memories to one another as if played out in the real world. The twin’s ability to visualize their memories is a fascinating gameplay mechanic, particularly for a mystery game, as they are able to watch scenes from their past with new perspectives. Unlike other games that might give you the option to replay a past event, this game accounts for the fact that memory isn’t perfect. When you see what the twins remember, there are occasionally different accounts of the situation. As the player, you also get the choice to select which memory you believe the most. In addition to these memories, you can also use the voice, allowing the twins to speak telepathically with one another. Having a secret conversation to make sure you’re on the same page while interrogating someone? Yes please. My only complaint is that I wish there were more opportunities to use it! ​

​Environment

​The way the developers have been able to depict Alaska is absolutely beautiful. From whales jumping out of the water to amazing views and detailed landscapes, it is a true homage to Alaskan heritage. And the game gives you plenty of opportunities to sit and stare at the scenery until you’re ready to move on. There’s something enchanting about the stylized art style used here, even down to the character’s hair and eyes. Overall, it’s an all around pleasant and nostalgic experience that enhances the player’s immersion in the game.

The way the developers have been able to depict Alaska is absolutely beautiful. From whales jumping out of the water to amazing views and detailed landscapes, it is a true homage to Alaskan heritage. And the game gives you plenty of opportunities to sit and stare at the scenery until you’re ready to move on. There’s something enchanting about the stylized art style used here, even down to the character’s hair and eyes. Overall, it’s an all around pleasant and nostalgic experience that enhances the player’s immersion in the game.

Characters 

DONTNOD continues to follow its pattern of telling stories of traditionally underrepresented groups, without making it the focal point of their identities. As aforementioned, Tyler being transgender is no less relevant to his narrative, but it also by no means is presented as a defining aspect of his personality. As another example, Alyson experiences a panic attack at one point in the game-- something I’ve rarely seen happen in games before. As someone with anxiety, I was very grateful to see a realistic portrayal of its challenges represented in the media. Besides the protagonists, the game has a variety of other wonderfully unique side characters. What really makes them feel well-rounded, though, is that they feel human. They’re messy and relatable, have mental health challenges, respond to conflict imperfectly, and they’re intentions don’t always align with the end result. Even the twins’ mother, who has passed away long before the events of the game, is carefully developed as a meaningful presence.

Performance/ Soundtrack

​With the central focus of the game being its storytelling and characters, it’s important to have a solid cast to bring these characters to life. Both August Aiden and Erica Lindbeck more than deliver on this front with their excellent performances as Tyler and Alyson, respectively. It’s great to see a trans man play a trans character, which probably sounds like common sense on paper, yet surprisingly rare.

​The mostly somber-feeling music also fits really well with the melodramatic moments on screen. There are a few songs that fit perfectly, but the overall score is masterfully paired with the game’s tone. Tense, dreadful beats accompany you when you’re on the brink of making a major discovery, while the wistful, melancholic tunes bring life to the twin’s forgotten memories. It’s an earnest depiction of these characters that are better executed because of the tranquil sounds playing behind them.

Final Thoughts

Despite this being a deeply tragic narrative, it is not one without hope. And getting the chance to enjoy the nostalgia of the twins’ childhood was so much fun! To me, Tell Me Why is a demonstration of how much untapped potential there is in the adventure game genre, and I hope we see this studio continue to evolve. I would highly recommend this game to anyone who enjoys choice-driven stories and compelling mysteries. Hopefully, you get the chance to experience this adventure for yourself to decide! Thank you for your time.

STEPHANIE MURILLO