Squid Game Season 2- Did it live up to the hype?

“Squid Game,” the South Korean series that captivated global audiences with its intense narrative and social commentary returned with its highly anticipated second season on December 26, 2024. The first season introduced viewers to a deadly competition where financially desperate people participated in children’s games with deadly consequences, all for a cash prize. The protagonist, Seong Gi-hun, emerged as the sole survivor, uncovering the sinister organization behind the games. 

New Games 

It involved the classic Korean childhood games we know from season 1, like “Red Light Green Light”, however, there were new additions such as “Six Legs,” where members have their legs tied together in groups and take part in various mini-games to move on. 

Another game is “Mingle” in which players step onto a platform as the song “Round and Round” played and when the music stops, groups gather according to a hollered number. If a group fell short, elimination was executed. This game impacted social media with viral clips of the iconic scenes and captions of praise. “Mingle was my favorite game because of all the interactions between the characters,” said 12^th grader, Micheal Silva. 

What’s New? 

In Season 2, Gi-hun, driven by a desire to dismantle the organization, re-enters the perilous arena. The narrative delves deeper into the origins and operations of the games, introducing new characters and more complex challenges. The season maintains the show’s signature blend of suspense and social critique, exploring themes of power, morality, and human desperation.  

The Audience’s Response 

Many people have opinions on the “depth of the show” and its plot points. Critics and audiences have offered mixed reactions to the new season. Positive feedback highlights the mind-blowing plot twists and the evident character development.

“The scenes involving the search squad were sometimes too elongated, and the plot only picked up towards the end. I did like how this season had more characters and fewer deaths, allowing me to develop a connection to them,” Johanna Perez, an 11th grader, stated.  

The introduction of Hyun-ju, a transgender ex-soldier portrayed by Park Sung-hoon, has been particularly praised for adding depth and diversity to the narrative. Additionally, the season’s complex challenges and moral dilemmas have been said to keep viewers engaged.  

Other characters have gained fans’ attention, like a pregnant Kim Jun-hee, played by former K-pop idol Jo Yu-ri. Fans say the difference in players and more depth adds to the show. Emi Martin, a 10^th grader said, “Jun-hee was a great addition to the show, and I watched to see her story.”

However, some criticism has emerged. Certain plot developments have been labeled as repetitive, with detractors feeling that the season treads familiar ground without offering substantial innovation. There was also a notable editing error, where a cameraman was visible during a pivotal scene. This has drawn attention and sparked discussions about the show’s production quality. However, production praise still remains throughout most of the show.  

Jade Izquierdo, an 11^th grader, said, “I really loved the cinematography this season. There is a noticeable difference from season one. I think the acting and storytelling were executed perfectly, and the only thing I would say I disliked is that some storylines felt like they had no substance to them.”

What’s Next? 

Looking ahead, viewers are speculating about the direction of Season 3. Many anticipate a deeper exploration into the origins of the games and the enigmatic figures orchestrating them. There is also a desire for more character backstories and an examination of the societal structures that allow this brutal competition to exist. The cliffhanger ending of Season 2 has left audiences eager to see how unresolved plots will unfold. Netflix claims this awaited season will drop later this year. 

“Squid Game” Season 2 continues to deliver the intense drama and social commentary that defined its predecessor, while also facing critiques regarding its narrative choices and production aspects. As the series progresses, it remains a focal point of discussion, reflecting broader societal issues through its dystopian lens.