Telltale Games Returns with The Expanse: A Telltale Series

After undergoing closure and rebirth, Telltale Games is back with its first episodic adventure game since 2019. Teaming up with Life Is Strange: True Colors developer Deck Nine, Telltale presents The Expanse: A Telltale Series. As a prequel to the popular Syfy and Prime Video television show, this game marks a strong start to a new era for the studio.

A Familiar Telltale Games Experience

The Expanse: A Telltale Series Episode 1 captures the essence of a classic Telltale Games product. Players assume the role of Carmina Drummer, voiced by Cara Gee, as they delve into the adventure, making dialogue choices and getting to know their crewmates on a scavenger ship. Unlike some later Telltale Games titles, Deck Nine ensures that players must actively control Carmina and navigate the environment to progress the plot. This immersive approach allows players to feel fully engaged in the sci-fi series.

Exploration in Space

The space setting adds an extra layer of intrigue to the exploration in The Expanse: A Telltale Series. Players can take advantage of zero gravity, walking on walls to locate well-hidden salvage. In the first episode, players are tasked with looting a ship that fell victim to pirates, and the true appeal lies in the sense of discovery. Each room is teeming with transmissions, data logs, and items waiting to be found. Thorough exploration enhances the gaming experience, reminiscent of classic adventure games. Additionally, using thrusters to navigate different areas of the ship adds a refreshing sense of mobility.

A Return to Telltale’s Trademarks

The Expanse: A Telltale Series reacquaints players with the trademarks of the studio. Players will encounter impactful decisions, accompanied by reminders that their relationships with characters have changed. Quick-time events determine the outcome of action scenes, providing an adrenaline rush. Well-crafted dialogues and compelling characters contribute to the game’s allure. The revival of the Telltale brand in The Expanse reinforces the studio’s competence, dispelling any doubts that may have arisen during the tumultuous period leading up to its hiatus.

A Promising Start

Although the first episode, titled “Archer’s Paradox,” starts off gradually, it serves as an apt introduction. Action takes a backseat until the episode’s climactic ending. However, the sense of danger and foreboding prevalent while exploring the attacked ship compensates for the initial lack of action. While more substantial choices are desired (only two of significance are present), subsequent episodes, released biweekly, are likely to intensify the decision-making process.

A Strong Debut

The Expanse: A Telltale Series Episode 1 offers a compelling start for both the series and Telltale Games’ revival. Fans of the show will relish delving into Drummer’s backstory, with Cara Gee delivering a formidable performance that meets expectations. The future episodes will determine if the story can fulfill its promising start, but the game’s overall production quality and refinement indicate an improvement from Telltale’s previous titles.

• Feels true to the feel of the series
• Likeable characters
• Exploring spaceships is a lot of fun
• Little in terms of action
• Just a few choices are made

Disclaimer: Our The Expanse: A Telltale Series Episode 1 review is based on a PS5 copy provided by the publisher. Reviewed on version 1.000.001.