Life Is Strange: Before the Storm Score – Prequel Quality
Life Is Strange: Before the Storm, the 2017 prequel to the critically acclaimed Life Is Strange, had big shoes to fill. While it didn’t feature the time-rewinding mechanics of the original, it carved out its own identity through emotional storytelling, deep character exploration, and a hauntingly beautiful score. The soundtrack, composed by indie band Daughter, plays a pivotal role in shaping the game’s melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere. But does the score elevate Before the Storm to the same level of quality as the original, or does it stand as its own unique experience?
A Different, Yet Familiar Sound
The original Life Is Strange featured a mix of indie folk and alternative tracks, with artists like Syd Matters, José González, and Sparklehorse contributing to its dreamy, nostalgic tone. Before the Storm takes a different approach—Daughter’s ethereal, guitar-driven soundscapes create a more introspective and raw atmosphere. The music feels deeply personal, mirroring Chloe Price’s turbulent emotions as she navigates grief, rebellion, and her complicated relationship with Rachel Amber.
Tracks like "Burn It Down" and "Glass" capture Chloe’s anger and vulnerability, while softer pieces such as "Flaws" and "A Hole in the Earth" reflect moments of quiet reflection. Unlike the licensed tracks of the first game, Daughter’s score was composed specifically for Before the Storm, making it feel more integrated into the narrative.
Emotional Resonance & Storytelling
One of the most impressive aspects of the Before the Storm score is how it enhances the game’s emotional weight. The absence of Max’s time powers means the story relies more on dialogue, character interactions, and environmental storytelling—and the music amplifies these elements perfectly.
For example, the junkyard scenes between Chloe and Rachel are underscored by soft, melancholic guitar riffs, reinforcing their bond and the fleeting nature of their happiness. The tempestuous moments—Chloe’s arguments with David, her confrontations with Frank, and the heartbreaking finale—are all heightened by Daughter’s intense, swelling instrumentals.
Does It Match the Original?
Comparing Before the Storm’s score to the original is difficult because they serve different purposes. The first game’s soundtrack was more about nostalgia and fleeting youth, while Before the Storm is about pain, loss, and defiance. Daughter’s music doesn’t just accompany the story—it becomes Chloe’s inner voice.
That said, some fans argue that the original’s licensed tracks had more immediate emotional impact. Songs like "Obstacles" and "Spanish Sahara" became iconic within the fandom, whereas Daughter’s score, while beautiful, doesn’t always have the same sing-along quality. However, this isn’t necessarily a weakness—Before the Storm’s music is more subtle, more atmospheric, and ultimately more thematically cohesive.
Conclusion: A Worthy Prequel Soundtrack
Life Is Strange: Before the Storm’s score may not replicate the exact magic of the original, but it doesn’t need to. Daughter’s compositions provide a deeply emotional, immersive experience that perfectly complements Chloe’s story. It’s less about catchy indie tunes and more about raw, unfiltered feeling—making it a worthy successor in its own right.
For fans of the series, the soundtrack is yet another reason to revisit Arcadia Bay. And for newcomers, it’s a hauntingly beautiful introduction to Chloe Price’s world—one that lingers long after the final credits roll.
Final Verdict: Before the Storm’s score may not surpass the original, but it stands as a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, proving that a prequel can have its own identity while still honoring what came before.
