I just finished Alice in Borderland Season 3 on Netflix, and honestly, I have mixed feelings. I loved the first two seasons. They felt complete. The ending gave closure, and for me, the story was done. So when Netflix announced Season 3, I wasn’t really hyped. It felt like one of those times when a franchise is stretched a little too much.
But still, curiosity wins. I binged it. And here’s my full Alice in Borderland review—personal, detailed, and maybe a bit conflicted.
What’s New in Season 3?
There’s a time gap. Arisu and Usagi are married now, living a happy life.
New characters pop up—like a scientist and some fresh players.
A few episodes in, Usagi goes missing, which sets the stage for Arisu to dive back into the Borderland.
At first, it felt slow. The first episode and a half are basically setup. That’s fine, but it didn’t grab me the way past seasons did.
Netflix and the “Franchise Problem”
Here’s my honest gripe: this season feels like Netflix milking the name. The first two seasons built a massive world, gave us emotional arcs, and wrapped up well. Season 3 tries to answer why more story is needed, but the reason just didn’t land for me.
Yes, there are still complex games, brutal deaths, and shocking twists. But the motivation behind continuing the series doesn’t feel strong.
The Games – Brutal, Bloody, and Still Clever
One thing I can’t deny: the games remain intense. They’re explained better this time—clear rules, clear instructions. The deaths are brutal. Blood is everywhere. Unpredictable outcomes keep you guessing. That said, some games feel too predictable, and others make no logical sense. Sometimes it feels like you need to turn your brain off and watch. And honestly, it feels like Arisu has plot armor. Everyone else can die, but somehow, he always manages to survive.
Characters and Emotional Impact
This is where the season loses steam. Side characters don’t get the same development as in the first two seasons. They pop in, die, and you move on. Emotional scenes try to land, but since we barely know these characters, the impact fades quickly. Backstories sometimes feel cliché. I didn’t cry at any deaths this time, which says a lot. In earlier seasons, the deaths felt heavy. Here, not so much.
Comparisons to Squid Game
I couldn’t shake the Squid Game vibes while watching. Yes, they’re different at the core—Squid Game is about money and survival in the real world, while Alice in Borderland dives into the afterlife. But both shows now feature: A champion player returning with a personal agenda. Games that feel like spectacles. Emotional sacrifices from veteran players. The similarities made this season feel less fresh.
Performances and Technical
The acting is solid. Even with a weaker storyline, the cast pulls weight. Cinematography is beautiful. Some shots feel wallpaper-worthy. The Borderland still looks massive and eerie. The BGM (background music) really elevates tension. What didn’t work? The English dub. Honestly, it ruined some of the emotional tone. The original Japanese acting is much stronger.
The Ending – Open, Again
Here’s the thing: the last episode drags. It’s full of montages, closure moments, and a setup for possible future seasons. Netflix leaves things open-ended, again. Which basically means: they’ll renew it if numbers look good.
For me, it felt unnecessary. The story could’ve ended neatly in Season 2.
My Personal Take
Season 1 and 2? Incredible.
Season 3? Watchable, but not on the same level.
It feels like a cash grab, though it still gives some closure to old characters.
If you loved the first two, you’ll probably watch this anyway. Just don’t expect it to hit as hard.
Why You Might Still Watch It
The games are still creative and bloody. The world feels big and dark. If you’re attached to Arisu and Usagi, it’s worth seeing their journey continue. But if you’re hoping for something as groundbreaking as the first season, you might feel let down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Alice in Borderland Season 3 worth watching?
>> If you loved the first two seasons, you’ll find moments to enjoy, but it doesn’t live up to earlier highs.
Q2. How many episodes are in Alice in Borderland Season 3?
>> The season runs with 8 episodes, each around 45–55 minutes.
Q3. Does Season 3 set up a Season 4?
>> Yes. The ending leaves things open for future continuation, even if many fans feel the story was complete earlier.
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