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After two lackluster episodes, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series finally finds its footing in Episode 3: More Than A Feeling. While some persistent issues remain, the episode is elevated by a nuanced exploration of the complex relationship between Gamora and Nebula, and the intriguing introduction of a familiar character.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series – Episode 3 screenshot showing Gamora and Peter Quill

Delving into Family Matters

The Guardians’ quest to determine the fate of the Eternity Forge, an artifact capable of resurrecting the dead, takes a turn as the artifact begins to exert its influence. It triggers visions and memories of the past, creating two of the episode’s strongest moments. One showcases a surprisingly humorous exchange between Gamora and Peter Quill, as they react to the Forge’s visions. More importantly, we gain valuable insight into Gamora and Nebula’s shared history with Thanos. These flashbacks illuminate the fractured relationship between the sisters and provide context for their current animosity. The game handles this complex dynamic with remarkable sensitivity, regardless of the player’s choices regarding Nebula. This is further reinforced when the player experiences the story from Nebula’s perspective later in the episode.

Mantis and the Eternity Forge

More Than A Feeling introduces Mantis, who retains her comic book ability to sense and manipulate emotions. Her connection to the Eternity Forge leads Peter and the Guardians to the most significant decision in the series so far: whether to power or destroy the artifact. The weight of this choice fuels compelling conflict among the Guardians, with Rocket, Drax, and Gamora each presenting valid arguments to influence Peter’s decision. This creates a sense of genuine tension absent in the previous episodes.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series – Episode 3 screenshot showing a scene with Mantis

Lingering Narrative Weaknesses

Despite these improvements, More Than A Feeling still suffers from narrative shortcomings. The justification for Peter’s crucial role as the “Celestial One,” the chosen one, remains unconvincing. The game’s explanation of his significance feels perfunctory for those familiar with Star-Lord’s origins and lacks the necessary impact for newcomers to the Guardians of the Galaxy universe.

Similarly, the connection between Mantis and the Eternity Forge feels contrived. She is discovered in a sarcophagus and then conveniently leads the Guardians to the pedestal that activates the artifact. Her presence serves primarily as a plot device rather than a fully realized character, despite her otherwise engaging portrayal and the positive energy she brings to the group.

A Step in the Right Direction

Overall, More Than A Feeling represents a mixed bag. The narrative flows more naturally than in previous episodes, with fewer jarring plot points. Action sequences see some improvement, although they remain largely unremarkable. The pacing remains uneven, with an overabundance of action crammed into the final 15 minutes to set up the next episode. Furthermore, the interactive segments where the player controls Peter Quill continue to feel tedious.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series – Episode 3 screenshot showing a fight scene

Conclusion: A Glimmer of Hope

While More Than A Feeling is not without its flaws, it demonstrates a marked improvement in storytelling and character development. The exploration of Gamora and Nebula’s relationship is a highlight, and the introduction of Mantis adds an intriguing new dynamic. However, the episode still struggles with narrative inconsistencies and underwhelming gameplay. While not a complete redemption, Episode 3 offers a glimmer of hope for the remainder of the series. It remains to be seen whether Telltale can capitalize on this momentum and deliver a truly satisfying Guardians of the Galaxy experience.