The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series

Release Date: October 30, 2020
Developer: Skybound Games
Publisher: Skybound Games
Genre: Adventure
Mode: Single-player

The Walking Dead:

The Telltale Definitive Series is the ultimate collection for fans of the critically acclaimed franchise. With all four seasons, the 400 Days DLC, and The Walking Dead: Michonne, this collection offers over 50 hours of gripping gameplay across 23 episodes. It’s a must-play experience for fans of narrative-driven games.

What’s New?

The definitive edition adds the “Graphic Black” art style, enhancing the visuals of earlier seasons with the stunning dynamic lighting introduced in Season 4. It also includes 10+ hours of behind-the-scenes commentary, a documentary short, a music player with 40+ tracks, and an array of digital bonuses like 3D model viewers and nostalgic menu recreations.

A Season-by-Season Breakdown

Season 1:

Step into the shoes of Lee, tasked with protecting Clementine in a heart-wrenching tale of survival and sacrifice. The emotional journey, unforgettable characters, and a gut-punching ending make it a timeless masterpiece.

Season 2:

Take control of Clementine as she grows into a determined survivor. This season emphasizes moral dilemmas and tough choices that define the tone of the game. From deciding who lives or dies to handling relationships, it’s an emotionally charged experience.

400 Days DLC:

A collection of five short stories centered around a Georgia truck stop during the outbreak’s early days. Each tale intertwines and adds depth to the Walking Dead universe, making your choices impactful for the next season.

The Walking Dead: Michonne:

Dive into the psyche of Michonne, the iconic blade-wielding character. This miniseries explores her personal demons, bridging the gap between her story arcs in the comics. It’s a raw, emotional journey of loss, regret, and resilience.

A New Frontier:

Experience the apocalypse through the eyes of Javier, a man driven by the desperate need to protect his family. The storyline intertwines with Clementine’s, bringing fresh emotional stakes and reinforcing the series’ theme of survival at all costs.

The Final Season:

Clementine’s journey comes to a fitting conclusion. Now a battle-hardened survivor, she faces new challenges as she protects AJ, the boy she’s raised like her own. The over-the-shoulder camera system and unscripted combat create heightened tension, while the striking “Graphic Black” art style breathes life into this climactic chapter.

Why It Shines

Telltale Games has mastered the art of storytelling. Every conversation, decision, and interaction carries weight, shaping not only the story but also the relationships you build or destroy. Exploration rewards players with vital clues and deeper insights into the characters’ lives, adding layers of immersion.

What Could Be Improved

While the series delivers exceptional storytelling, gameplay mechanics like quick-time events and some animations could feel repetitive. However, these minor flaws are overshadowed by the game’s emotional impact and gripping narratives.

Mature Content Advisory

The game includes strong language, graphic violence, and intense scenes of horror, making it a haunting but memorable experience for mature players.

Final Verdict

Telltale’s The Walking Dead: Definitive Series is a masterclass in interactive storytelling. Its emotionally charged narrative, morally complex decisions, and unforgettable characters make it a standout in the adventure genre.