Telltale Games’ THE WALKING DEAD might not just be one of the most popular game series right now, it might be one of the most important video games of the 2010s. Yes, graphic adventure games focusing on story have pretty much been around since the 80s. And Telltale Games certainly is no stranger to point-and-click story-driven games, or even good franchise point-and-clicks (such as Telltale Games’ BACK TO THE FUTURE).
But there’s something different about THE WALKING DEAD. Perhaps it’s the fact that it doesn’t rely on gimmicks. No mowing down zombies just for the sake of it. No utterly confusing and long puzzles that derail the story. Just a powerfully driven tale that relies on well written characters, clockwork twists and turns, and the difficult decisions you’re forced make (even if the choices don’t amount to much). In short, it shows that video games don’t have to rely on straight up action, or even complex puzzles that add nothing to the story. Games in other words, can be mostly about the story (and yes, I understand that HEAVY RAIN also proved that, but while it’s a good game, it lacks Clementine and zombies). Which might pave the way for works and adaptations that focus more on the quiet moments rather than nonstop balls-to-the-wall action, from THE STAND to even PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. In short, buy THE WALKING DEAD: SEASON ONE now if you haven’t already.
With Season One being such a well written, engaging, and above all touching story, it was a tall order for Season Two. And while Episode One, “All That Remains”, was a great start, it felt lackluster in comparison to the previous season.
It wasn’t because Clementine was taking charge, who is a terrific new lead. Nor was it due to the plot which, while spending a good deal of time setting up the events, had its fair share of good twists and saddening moments.
The biggest beef I had with “All That Remains” was that it lacked a compelling supporting cast. Even though Lee and Clementine were the heart and soul of Season One, it would have been nothing without the supporting cast. They were funny, obnoxious, heroic, cowardly, and above all, human beings I cared for. The new cast, on the other hand, were impenetrable.
Episode Two, “A HOUSE DIVIDED”, shatters that. Not only have the characters lightened up after finally giving Clementine some trust and respect, I’m finally starting to get attached to them. Like the previous group, they’re flawed, personable, and there’s no group I’d rather be with.
The plot itself keeps a pretty steady pace. There’s not the same emotional punch in the gut that the other episodes carry, but the plot is clockwork here. If there’s one thing THE WALKING DEAD is able to do, it’s make you feel clever before pulling the rug out. There are plenty of omens that made me giddy with suspenseful anticipation, as well as a curveball or two that came out of nowhere.
But hands down the most memorable thing… well, I shouldn’t spoil it. Let’s just say it harkens back to the good old days. Rather than make it a last minute twist, they put it about halfway. So as opposed to it being just a shocking surprise, it gives the episode a whole new paradigm I wasn’t expecting.
One thing that might polarize critics and fans is the fact that “A House Divided” has completely eschewed all puzzles that are even remotely complicated. This might infuriate some old school gamers, but as an old school gamer myself who has been stuck pointing on the screen for countless hours for many adventure games, I applaud Telltale Games for taking the chance and focusing solely on the story.
There’s nothing much else I can say without spoiling it. It’s a near flawless episode, with its major Achilles’ Heel being its extremely short length of about ninety minutes or so (especially considering the long wait between episodes one and two). Regardless, any doubts of Season Two being a worthy and equal successor are vanquished. Anyone who loved THE WALKING DEAD: SEASON ONE needs to buy this game ASAP. And if you still haven’t gotten around to playing the first season, do yourself a favor and purchase it.
RELEASE DATE: March 4th, 2014
PUBLISHER: Telltale Games
DEVELOPER: Telltale Games
RATING: M (Mature)