Is The Walking Dead Telltale Game Canon?
The Walking Dead: A Telltale Game series is an episodic adventure game based on the popular comic book series created by Robert Kirkman. The game series has received widespread acclaim for its emotional storytelling, well-developed characters, and its ability to capture the dark and gritty tone of the comic book series. But, for fans of the comics and the TV series, one question remains: is The Walking Dead Telltale game canon?
The Short Answer
Yes, The Walking Dead Telltale Game series is canon. While it takes creative liberties with the characters and story, it is deeply rooted in the comic book universe and shares a connection with the other official Walking Dead media. Robert Kirkman himself has stated that the game is "very, very canon."
How Did the Game Become Canon?
Telltale’s Creative Director, Gary Whitta, was given full access to the comic book source material, which allowed him to craft a story that resonated with the tone and spirit of the comics. The game’s story and characters were closely reviewed by Robert Kirkman and Skybound Entertainment, ensuring that it remained faithful to the original material.
A Look at the Connection Between the Comics and the Game
Here’s a table comparing the characters, settings, and plotlines between the comics and the game:
| Character | Comics | Game |
|---|---|---|
| Clementine | Supporting character | Protagonist |
| Lee Everett | Major character | Protagonist |
| Telltale’s Version of walkers | Slow-moving, groaning, and weak | Fast, intelligent, and deadly |
Plot similarities and differences:
• Both the comics and the game focus on survival, exploration, and dealing with the zombie apocalypse.
• Both stories have multiple characters and subplots that converge into a single, cohesive narrative.
• Major events, such as the introduction of the Gov., are taken directly from the comics, while original plotlines and character arcs are added to enrich the story.
Key Canon-Friendly Moments:
- Clementine’s survival: Despite the odds, Clementine remains a key character throughout the series, a nod to her enduring spirit and connection to the comic book series.
- The fate of major characters: Decisions made by players have direct consequences on the characters and the story, similar to the comics’ character-centric approach.
- Setting: The game takes place in a similar geographic location, with references to major locations like Washington D.C. and Woodbury, making it an authentic representation of the comic book world.
Not-Canon Elements:
• Artistic liberties taken with character appearances: Some characters, like Lee and Kenny, appear different in the game compared to the comics, due to creative liberties taken with character designs.
• Unique storytelling: While the game stays true to the comic book tone and style, it has its own original narrative arcs and twists that aren’t found in the comics.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, The Walking Dead Telltale game series is indeed canon, taking into account the game’s close connection to the comic book universe, character arcs, plotlines, and canon-friendly moments. While artistic liberties were taken to create a unique storytelling experience, the game’s faithfulness to the original material is evident. If you’re a fan of the Walking Dead franchise, playing through the game will be a rich and rewarding experience that honors the spirit of the comics.
Note:
• Telltale Games’ bankruptcy in 2018 and subsequent cancellation of future projects does not invalidate the game’s canonicity, as it has already been accepted as part of the official Walking Dead franchise by Robert Kirkman and Skybound Entertainment.
Sources:
• Telltale Games’ blog – detailing the development process and connections to the comics
• IGN – exclusive interview with Gary Whitta on the game’s canon status
• Comic Book Resources – Robert Kirkman’s statements on the game’s canonization