Squid Game 2 Review: What Worked?

Gi-hun`s Obsession:

Gi-hun`s relentless pursuit of dismantling the Squid Game organisation consumes him, even two years after winning. This sets the stage for his return.

Rehashing Season 1:

The plot structure mirrors the first season too closely: games, deaths, and Gi-hun`s rage. This makes the narrative feel somewhat repetitive.

Delayed Return to Island:

It takes two episodes for Gi-hun to return to the game arena. This slow pacing and focus on less important characters hinders the narrative.

New Games, Same Violence:

While new games are introduced, they don`t offer a significantly different experience from the first season`s violent spectacles.

Stronger Female Roles:

Season 2 features more developed female characters, including a pregnant player, a shaman, and a North Korean defector turned guard, adding depth.

Voting & Social Commentary:

The introduction of player voting on continuing the game highlights themes of majority rule and societal divisions.

Monotony & Pacing Issues:

Despite interesting themes, repetitive voting sequences and drawn-out scenes lead to pacing problems and viewer boredom.

Abrupt Cliffhanger Ending:

The season concludes with a frustratingly abrupt cliffhanger, leaving many plot threads unresolved and setting up a third season.

Satire vs. Franchise:

The show`s initial satire on capitalist exploitation is somewhat undermined by its own transformation into a highly profitable franchise.

Acting & Visuals Remain Strong:

Despite narrative flaws, the show maintains its high production values, compelling acting, and visually distinctive aesthetic.