Fans of the hit Japanese survival drama are divided as the new season introduces a surprising twist involving the main characters’ unborn child and hints at a potential American adaptation, drawing immediate comparisons to the global phenomenon Squid Game.
The long-awaited third season of Alice in Borderland arrived on September 25, 2025, on Netflix. The season continues the story of Arisu (Kento Yamazaki) and Usagi (Tao Tsuchiya), who, after escaping the deadly games and getting married in the real world, are pulled back into the parallel universe when Usagi is kidnapped. This time, the games revolve around the final, mysterious Joker card. However, new plot details revealed in the trailer and early episodes have sparked a significant wave of online discussion and some ridicule, particularly focusing on a storyline involving Usagi’s pregnancy and the announcement of an American version of the show.
The Controversial New Plot Development
The central point of contention among viewers is the introduction of an unborn child as a key element in the survival games. In the new season, it is revealed that Usagi is pregnant when she is taken back to the Borderland. This forces Arisu to return not only to save his wife but also to protect their unborn child, who is now seemingly a part of the game’s mechanics.
This narrative choice has drawn comparisons to other stories where children are placed in perilous situations, with some fans calling it an unconvincing and overly dramatic stakes-raiser. The concept of an “unborn baby player” has become a focal point for criticism on social media, with many users expressing that it feels like a forced attempt to heighten drama. The show, known for its brutal and intellectual games, is now facing comments that it is leaning into melodrama.
“Squid Game All Over Again” – Fan Reactions
Online reactions have been swift and pointed. Many fans have taken to social media platforms to express their views, with a common sentiment being that the new plotline and the American version announcement feel like a move to replicate the success of Squid Game.
One user commented on the similarity in trajectory, noting that both shows involve deadly games and have gained massive international popularity on Netflix. The announcement of an American version has further fueled these comparisons, leading to concerns about unnecessary remakes. A fan expressed a common worry, writing, “First Squid Game gets an American version, now Alice in Borderland? Why can’t we just enjoy the original?” Others have been more direct in their criticism of the baby plot, with posts stating that the twist “jumps the shark” and feels out of place in the established world of the show.
Official Season 3 Storyline and Cast
Despite the controversy, the official synopsis for the season sets up a high-stakes rescue mission. After Usagi is abducted by a mysterious man named Ryuji (Kento Kaku) who is obsessed with the afterlife, Arisu learns she has been taken back to the Borderland. He must re-enter the dangerous world to find her. Upon his return, he faces immediate life-threatening challenges, including flaming arrows and powerful electric currents. The goal is no longer just to survive, but to complete the final game represented by the Joker card.
The cast sees the return of lead actors Kento Yamazaki and Tao Tsuchiya, alongside returning players like Hayato Isomura as Banda and Ayaka Miyoshi as Ann. The season also introduces several new characters played by actors such as Koji Ohkura, Tina Tamashiro, and Hiroyuki Ikeuchi.
A Look at the American Version Announcement
The hint of an American adaptation was mentioned in promotional materials for the third season. While specific details about the American version’s plot or cast are still scarce, the mere suggestion has contributed to the feeling that Netflix is attempting to create a expanded franchise similar to the approach taken with Squid Game, which has a reality show spin-off and a forthcoming second season. This strategy, while successful for some properties, has been met with skepticism by fans who believe the original Japanese version is sufficient and that a remake risks diluting what made the show unique.
Also Read: 11 Burning Questions Alice in Borderland Season 3 Needs to Answer
Credits: Netflix Tudum, Vogue Taiwan, Elle Taiwan
