The Expanse: A Telltale Series – Episode 1 Review

After working on hot properties like The Walking Dead and The Wolf Among Us, Telltale Games and Deck Nine have turned their attention to the world of sci-fi with the release of The Expanse: A Telltale Series Episode 1. Does this prequel stand out, or should players stick to Amazon?

The Expanse: A Telltale Series – Episode 1 Review

Set in 2347 aboard the Artemis ship, Camina Drummer may have very well come across the haul of the century aboard the UNN Urshanabi. While modern times show that this discovery had horrible consequences, Episode 1 of this tale tells of Drummer’s relationships with the crew and the moments that got them into this sticky situation.

And there are plenty of moments to speak of throughout the first episode’s one hour runtime. Drummer has got her work cut out for her, and along the way players will get a chance to know more about her relationship with Cox, her history, and her relations with the other crewmates.

It’s just a shame that this episode is made by and for the fans. For those who have yet to dive into The Expanse’s multiple seasons (like us, admittedly), they’ll be a bit in the lurch as they try to piece together why they are speaking in an alternate language or the history behind it all. As a result, newcomers might feel a bit disconnected compared to the more diehard fans among us when it comes to things like the lore and the alternate language that repeatedly pops up.

Players will spend most of their time interacting with the crew of the Artemis, chatting with teammates along the way. There are both Artemis Logs and Mission Logs, and players will be able to take on objectives and side missions along the way. This episode really goes above and beyond in making sure you are absorbed in this ship, and the worldbuilding is well done. It goes to show how well the video game medium works.

In true Telltale Games fashion, players will be tasked with making some tough decisions. While it is too soon to tell how the consequences will play out, they do set the stage for some serious outcomes. Other choices are a bit more minor, with crewmates “remembering” actions, but it is still welcome nonetheless.

Just note that things aren’t quite sunshine and rainbows between the crewmembers in The Expanse. Curse words are common, and everybody constantly seems to be at each other’s throats. As a result, it can be tough to find these crewmembers likable, making for an acquired taste. Don’t expect a crew akin to Star Trek and everything will be fine.

Episode 1 of The Expanse: A Telltale Series is designed by and for the fans, but sci-fi aficionados will appreciate its worldbuilding and deep atmosphere. Those that like a good story will enjoy their time exploring the UNN Urshanabi.

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