If you’re like most fans of Squid Game, you’ve been eagerly waiting for Squid Game Season 2. After the groundbreaking success of Season 1, which captivated global audiences with its intense plot and social commentary, Squid Game Season 2 has finally arrived on Netflix. But with it comes a wave of mixed reactions and a structure that’s left many viewers scratching their heads. Let’s dive into what makes this season different, why it ends the way it does, and what’s next in the Squid Game universe.
How Many Episodes Are in Squid Game Season 2?
Squid Game Season 2 is shorter than the first, consisting of only seven episodes. Unlike Season 1, which neatly wrapped up its story in nine episodes, Season 2 leaves the plot hanging in a way that’s sparked both intrigue and frustration among fans. Why? Because the story isn’t over yet.
Netflix has confirmed that Season 3 is already in the pipeline. In fact, the two seasons were filmed back-to-back, and Season 3 is expected to pick up right where Season 2 leaves off. While this might be a smart marketing move to keep the buzz alive, it’s left many viewers feeling like Season 2 was just a setup for the next chapter.
Why Is Season 2’s Ending Controversial?
The biggest complaint from fans is that the season ends just as the plot reaches its peak. Here’s what goes down in the final episodes:
- The identity of Oh Young Il (frontman Lee Byung Hun) is revealed.
- Captain Park (Oh Dal-soo) is revealed to be a traitor.
- When protagonist Sung Ki-hoon’s anger reaches its peak due to the death of his friend Jung Bae-man.
In episode 7, these developments happen in quick succession, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. But rather than resolving the tension, the season ends abruptly, setting the stage for the real action to unfold in season 3.
The Ratings Dilemma
Squid Game Season 2 has received mixed reviews. According to Rotten Tomatoes:
- Critics’ Score: 84%
- Audience Score: 64%
While critics have praised the storytelling and production quality, audience reactions have been less enthusiastic. Many feel the season lacks the originality and emotional depth that made the first season so compelling. The abrupt ending has also been a major sticking point, with fans expressing frustration over having to wait for Season 3 to see the story unfold.
However, despite these initial mixed reviews, Squid Game Season 2 has been dominating globally, ranking #1 in 92 out of 93 countries where Netflix is available. This overwhelming popularity demonstrates that the series continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, with positive reception steadily increasing as more viewers engage with the story.
Such global success suggests that while initial criticisms remain valid, the show’s cultural impact and widespread appeal are undeniable, hinting at the potential for future reevaluations of its reception.
Why Split the Seasons?
The decision to split the story into two seasons seems to be a strategic move by Netflix. By keeping viewers hooked with a cliffhanger, they ensure that the buzz around Squid Game doesn’t die down. However, this approach has its downsides. Many fans feel cheated, arguing that the story could have been delivered as a single, cohesive season instead of being drawn out for marketing purposes.
What Can We Expect in Squid Game Season 3?
Squid Game Season 3 promises to delve deeper into the rebellion led by Gi-hun and explore the sinister operations of the Squid Game organization. With Season 2 laying the groundwork for these themes, the next installment has the potential to redeem itself in the eyes of fans.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk has hinted that Season 3 will be more intense and emotionally gripping, addressing some of the criticisms leveled at Season 2. If done right, it could not only tie up loose ends but also restore the show’s reputation as a genre-defining masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
Squid Game Season 2 of Squid Game is a mixed bag. While it offers moments of brilliance and significant plot development, its abrupt ending has left many viewers feeling unsatisfied. That said, the promise of a thrilling Season 3 keeps the excitement alive.
If you’re a fan of high-stakes drama and intricate storytelling, Season 2 is still worth watching. Just be prepared for a cliffhanger that will leave you counting down the days until Season 3 drops. Until then, we can only speculate about how this story of survival, betrayal, and resistance will finally conclude.