The Walking Dead: 400 Days Review

Game Reviewed: The Walking Dead: 400 Days

Release Date: July 2nd, 2013

Developer: Telltale Games

Publisher: Telltale Games

Platform: [Reviewed: Xbox 360], PlayStation 3, PC

Genre: Adventure

Rated: M for Mature

After the huge success of the Walking Dead, brought to us by TellTale Games, creators of the Jurassic Park and Poker Night. The story of Lee and Clementine rocked the gaming world and received over Game of the Year award from journalist, including here at IRB Gamer.

It had to be a vigorous process creating a season two for the game, but it’s right around the corner. For now though, we take a look at the “1.5” transition into the Walking Dead entitled 400 Days. Does the story continue uphill, or did expectations sit too high.

In 400 Days you play as 5 individual characters, learning about how they all plan to play significant roles in the return of the Walking Dead. You’ll be surprised to discover how some of the characters played roles in the success of season one.

A few things that I immediately picked up on was the increase of language in the game. I felt like it’s either been a while since partaking in the story or they wanted to give detailed personalities to every individual. There was less movement and more decision based scenarios in this episode as well. It didn’t hinder the experience whatsoever, but it did change the expectations that once were.

One particular part of the game did feel broken, in my opinion. While ducking and moving around in a cornfield, I was “technically” caught twice. People looking for me walking straight pass me as shadows and even flashed light in my characters face. Instead of killing me, they pushed forward and conversed to one another.

The episode overall was entertaining, but never came close of giving you the lasting impression that you received from Lee and Clem. After running through every story, I wondered what could possibly happen next and moved on.

One of the more memorable playthroughs for me was when I was trapped on a bus on the way to jail (ironically similar to Lee’s introduction to the game). The mini-story and decisions you make has personally driven my interest to know more about the individual character.

One new control is featured in 400 Days, holding down the “A” or “X” button for a transitional interaction.

In preparation for the second season of the Walking Dead, 400 Days ends off being a great placeholder and tie-in as you must earn the 5 characters trust you the end. Will they follow you or choose to only trust their own judgment when the time calls? Only the Tale will Tell.

The Scores

Gameplay: 4.25/5

Visuals: 4.5/5

Audio: 4.5/5

Controls: 4.5/5

Value: 4/5

Overall Rating: 4.25/5