Alright, let’s just say it: when Squid Game first dropped, it hit different. Season 1 had us hooked — broke people playing creepy childhood games for survival? That was wild. Then Season 2 rolled in with even higher stakes, and now, boom — we’re at Season 3.
So… is it actually worth watching? Or is Netflix just stretching the story for one last cash grab?
I spent way too much time online reading reviews, fan comments, and reactions — from critics to Reddit trolls — just to figure this out. Here’s what people are really saying about Squid Game Season 3.
First Off: The Numbers Are Insane
Whether you love it or hate it, the numbers speak loud. Season 3 dropped, and within three days — 60 million people had watched it. That’s over 368 million hours.
Insane, right? That’s even more than Season 2 managed in its early days.
So clearly, folks are tuning in. But are they sticking around? That’s where things get interesting.
The Good Stuff (Because There Is Some)
Let’s give credit where it’s due. A bunch of critics are still vibing with this season. Here’s why:
- The acting still slaps. Lee Jung-jae is back doing what he does best — making you feel everything without saying much. Dude’s face deserves its own award.
- The games are brutal. Hide-and-seek in total darkness? Giant jump-rope challenges with real consequences? Yeah… the show didn’t lose its edge.
- There’s real emotion. Episode 2 has this scene with a woman giving birth during a game — yes, seriously — and it left people shook. Some cried. Some screamed. Some paused to recover.
- The production is next level. Set designs, camera work, lighting — all top-tier. It still looks like Squid Game, just bigger and scarier.
Now, the Not-So-Great Stuff
Here’s where the vibes get weird. Because while critics are giving it decent scores (somewhere around 80–90%), fans are… not as forgiving.
Audience ratings? Hovering around 50%. Yep, the same fans who hyped Season 1 are now side-eyeing Season 3. Why?
- The pacing drags. A few episodes feel like filler. Like, we get it, you’re setting something up… but can we go somewhere already?
- That childbirth scene? Divisive. Some people thought it was raw and emotional. Others? Called it unrealistic, cringe, and way too extra. Kinda felt like the show was trying to go viral again, but it didn’t quite land.
- Some arcs fall flat. Certain characters return just to do… nothing. There’s a subplot with the guards that builds tension but ends up going nowhere. And one fan fave’s storyline? Left hanging. Ouch.
What Regular People Are Actually Saying
Instead of just quoting critics, I checked Reddit, Twitter (X?), and YouTube comments. Here’s the unfiltered vibe:
“Still intense, but the story’s all over the place now.”
“I feel like they’re trying too hard to shock us.”
“Loved the games, hated the pacing.”
“It’s worth it if you need closure — just lower your expectations.”
So yeah, it’s a mixed bag. Nobody’s saying it’s trash, but a lot of fans feel like the magic’s dimming a bit.
What It Does Get Right
To be fair, Squid Game hasn’t totally lost its soul.
There are still themes in there — about power, money, and how messed-up systems crush people. The show’s just getting a little more in-your-face about it now. Less subtle social commentary, more dramatic storytelling.
Also: the ending. No spoilers, but let’s just say it doesn’t play it safe. There’s a massive cameo (yes, that’s Cate Blanchett), and the last scene hints we might be seeing a spin-off or U.S. version soon. Netflix isn’t dumb — they’re clearly building something.
My Honest Opinion?
It’s not perfect. Honestly, Season 1 is still unmatched. But Season 3 doesn’t flop — it just feels like the show’s evolving (or maybe overstaying its welcome a little). It’s darker, messier, and definitely not for casual viewers.
But if you’ve made it this far? Just finish the ride. It’s worth it for the moments — even if the whole package isn’t as tight as it used to be.
