Review – Minecraft: Story Mode- Season 2: Episode 1

I’ll be straight up with you.

I didn’t play season one of the Minecraft: Story Mode. Going in to play Season Two, I wasn’t really sure what to expect.

Sure, it’s Minecraft, something I’d lost hundreds of hours previously but to see it combined with a Telltale style game certainly piqued my interest.

Season Two of Minecraft: Story Mode has five episodes in total. Episodes 1-3 are currently available and the remaining two will be released at a later date.

This essentially follows the standard Telltale structure. While it’s definitely a Telltale game, it’s a lot more bright and happy than anything else in the developer’s catalogue. This is an adventure game you could let your kids play. The same can definitely not be said of The Walking Dead, The Wolf Among Us, Game of Thrones or even Guardians of the Galaxy.

Telltale often focuses on the darker side of humanity. With Minecraft: Story Mode it’s refreshing to it create something with a bit of whimsy.

Episode One – The Phantom Creeper

Episode One begins by allowing you to carry over choices from the original season. Since I was new, I didn’t take that option and jumped in as if it was a new adventure. Jesse the adventurer has returned as the main protagonist of the series.

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After the initial introductions, you will start out on the streets of Beacontown. It was difficult for me at first since I couldn’t just break stuff or build at my leisure. Something I eventually got used to as the game went on though. In Beacontown you’re tasked to meet up with another friend named Petra.

As you make your way you can talk to citizens and tourists in the streets. Although totally optional, it’s worth doing. Not only are the characters fun and interesting but they may provide help or aid for later in the game. Once you meet Petra you help her on what will become your new adventure.

Running the Gauntlet

Jesse and Petra come across a strange gauntlet in the lower mines. This leads to Jesse ending up with it fixed to his hand and unable to get it off. Now with no other choice, the friends must find a way to remove it. And thus the real adventure begins.

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The first episode is full of fun and interesting characters. Even though it’s really only the beginning, a lot does happen. I was happy to see that crafting and building were still a pivotal part of the game. You will need use both in certain parts to help solve puzzles. There are also some really fun and exciting action sequences as well. From battling zombies to running full pace through a cavern it’s action-packed.

Like most Telltale titles, Minecraft: Story Mode – Season Two: Episode One gets off to a fairly slow start. There’s enough of a hook to keep you wanting more though. It’s also perfect for returning and new players alike. Something strange is going on in Beacontown…

Now all I need to do is continue my adventure in Episode Two.

Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 2 is being reviewed on PS4 using a retail disc provided to PowerUp! by the publisher.