Squid Game Season 3 Receives Mixed Reviews From Global Critics After Finale Release

Netflix’s hit Korean series “Squid Game” has released its third and final season, sparking divided reactions from critics worldwide. While some praised its intense conclusion, others felt it didn’t match the brilliance of the first season.

The highly anticipated final season of “Squid Game” premiered today on June 27, 2025, wrapping up the dystopian survival drama that became a global phenomenon. Critics have shared conflicting opinions, with some calling it a powerful ending and others criticizing its excessive violence and repetitive structure.

Critics Praise the Final Season’s Emotional Impact

Many reviewers highlighted the season’s strong emotional payoff and Lee Jung-jae’s performance as Gi-hun. TIME magazine called it a “brutal yet satisfying conclusion”, noting that the series returned to its roots with high-stakes tension.

“The final season amplifies every strength of ‘Squid Game’ and goes even further, delivering a devastating yet meaningful ending.” – Collider

The Financial Times praised the fast pacing and sharp direction, saying the show “still offers an addictive level of immersion”. Meanwhile, Bloomberg focused on the deeper themes, describing the season as “a haunting question about what remains of our humanity.”

Criticism Over Excessive Violence and Repetitive Storytelling

Not all reviews were positive. The Guardian argued that the season “lost its satirical edge”, with violence becoming too relentless.

“The brutality has grown, the violence is a relentless grind, and the satire has ebbed away.” – The Guardian

IndieWire pointed out that the season suffered from “exhaustion”, with some episodes feeling repetitive. Screen Rant also noted that the first episode felt more like “a continuation of Season 2 rather than a fresh start.”

The Final Season’s Plot and Key Moments

Season 3 picks up right after the failed rebellion in Season 2, with Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) grieving the loss of his friend Jung-bae. The Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) continues manipulating the games, leading to a dramatic final showdown.

One of the most talked-about moments involves Jun-hee (Jo Yu-ri), a pregnant contestant whose baby becomes an unexpected player. The season’s final game, “Sky Squid Game”, forces players to make impossible choices, culminating in a shocking ending.

“Gi-hun’s final sacrifice is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact.” – Netflix Tudum

How Fans Are Reacting

Fans have also shared mixed feelings. Some praised the emotional depth, while others felt the season relied too much on shock value.

“The ending was unexpected but perfect. Gi-hun’s journey came full circle.” – Fan comment on Reddit

“Season 1 was a masterpiece, but Season 3 felt like it was trying too hard to top itself.” – Twitter user

Final Thoughts on the Series’ Legacy

Despite the divided opinions, “Squid Game” remains one of Netflix’s biggest hits. The first season still holds the record as the most-watched non-English series on the platform, with nearly 600 million views.

Also Read: Squid Game Season 3 Prize Money and Returning Players: Key Facts Before the Final Episodes

The show’s creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, has confirmed that this is the final season, wrapping up Gi-hun’s story. Whether fans loved or disliked the ending, the series has undeniably left a lasting mark on global entertainment.

Credits: Netflix Tudum and fan reactions.

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