Squid Game Season 3, the final chapter of Netflix’s global phenomenon, has arrived with a mix of high stakes, emotional depth, and some divisive creative choices.
As a South Korean survival drama that captivated audiences with its brutal social commentary and gripping narrative, the series faces immense pressure to stick the landing.
Does it succeed? Mostly, but not without stumbles. Here’s a spoiler-free review of Squid Game Season 3, based on its themes, execution, and impact.
A Return to Form After Season 2
After a polarizing second season that left some fans questioning the show’s direction, Season 3 feels like a course correction.
The narrative dives back into the core of what made the first season a hit: a candy-coated battle royale that juxtaposes childhood games with life-or-death consequences.
The show’s creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, doubles down on the emotional weight of the players’ choices, delivering moments that are both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking.
As one reviewer noted, it’s “thoughtful, emotional, and a solid comeback” for those who felt let down by Season 2.
The season picks up with Gi-hun, still grappling with the trauma of his past victory, as he navigates new challenges in and out of the deadly games.
The stakes feel personal, and the show leans into exploring humanity’s darker impulses—greed, desperation, and survival—at a deeper level.
The addition of new characters, alongside returning favorites, keeps the dynamic fresh, though some arcs shine brighter than others.
Strengths: Suspense, Themes, and Cinematic Polish
Season 3 excels in its suspense and visual flair. The games are as inventive and nerve-racking as ever, with set designs that are both whimsical and terrifying.
Each challenge is layered with social commentary, probing themes of inequality, morality, and the cost of capitalism. The show’s ability to make you squirm—both as a viewer and as a witness to the players’ moral dilemmas—remains its greatest strength.
IGN’s review captures this well, describing it as a “battle royale that thrives on making its players — and audience — squirm.”
The performances are another highlight. Lee Jung-jae delivers a raw, compelling portrayal of Gi-hun, while new cast members add complexity to the ensemble.
The show’s pacing keeps you hooked, with twists that feel earned and a narrative that balances action with quieter, introspective moments.
For fans of the series’ blood-stained social critique, Season 3 delivers plenty of moments that hit hard, especially in its exploration of “humanity’s dark depths.”
Weaknesses: A Flat Ending and Creative Missteps
Despite its strengths, Season 3 isn’t flawless. The finale, while memorable, has sparked mixed reactions. Some praise its bold choices and surprise cameos that hint at future possibilities, while others find it “flat” and unsatisfying.
The New York Times points out that the season could have benefited from “some honest nihilism” or “nuanced melodrama” to give its conclusion more weight.
Certain plotlines feel rushed or underdeveloped, and the writing occasionally leans on familiar tropes, which can dilute the impact of the show’s bolder moments.
Fan reactions on platforms like X reflect this divide. Some viewers, particularly those labeled as “VIPs” by one post, seem to love the season, while others feel the writers knew the audience might not fully embrace the ending.
The season’s ambition to tie up loose ends while setting up potential spin-offs creates a sense of unevenness, as if it’s trying to serve two masters.
Cultural Impact and Accessibility
One notable aspect of Season 3 is its global reach. Netflix has made the show accessible in multiple languages, including a Hindi dub, broadening its appeal.
This move underscores Squid Game’s status as a cultural juggernaut, resonating with audiences worldwide through its universal themes.
However, the show’s unrelenting intensity might not be for everyone, as it doesn’t shy away from crushing souls with “despicable scenarios.”
Final Verdict: Worth Watching, But Not Perfect
Squid Game Season 3 is a thrilling conclusion that recaptures much of the magic of the first season, with compelling twists, strong performances, and biting social commentary.
However, its uneven ending and occasional missteps prevent it from reaching the heights of its debut. It’s a season that will keep you glued to the screen but might leave you debating its choices long after the credits roll.
For fans, it’s a must-watch, even if it doesn’t fully stick the landing.
Rating: 8/10
If you’ve lost faith after Season 2, give this a shot—it’s a bloody, emotional ride that mostly delivers. Available now on Netflix.