Netflix continues to lead the way in captivating audiences worldwide, particularly with its survival thriller content, leading to the much-anticipated releases of Squid Game season 3 and Alice in Borderland season 3 both set for 2025. This increase is much-awaited not just by die-hard fans but also by newcomers alike, as the death game genre continues to thrive.
When Squid Game debuted on Netflix back in 2021, it shattered viewing records and quickly became the platform's most-watched show at the time. The unique mix of dark humor and creativity paired with high-stakes games caught the attention of audiences globally and sparked conversations about its themes of desperation and morality. Though Squid Game undeniably led the pack, it wasn’t the beginning of the death game genre’s popularity.
Before Netflix showcased the intense competition of Squid Game, Alice in Borderland, a Japanese sci-fi thriller, surfaced, first premiering its first season in December 2020. Despite not initially making as big of an impact, it captured interest sufficient enough to warrant renewal, leading to its second season dropping two years later, also around December. Now, with the expectations set high, both shows are slated to return after engaging storylines and cliffhanging seasons, with many eager to see how their respective narratives will evolve.
One distinguishing factor between Squid Game and Alice in Borderland is their thematic elements. While both are categorized under the same death game genre, Squid Game offers its audiences more of a contemporary thriller experience focusing on societal issues. On the other hand, Alice in Borderland combines this intensity with science fiction, immersing viewers within its mysterious and complex narrative structure.
With the excitement for Alice in Borderland season 3 building, fans are left on the edge of their seats, especially after the second season's explosive finale. "After a bombastic season 2 finale, I can't wait to return to the game in Alice in Borderland season 3 and see how Arisu and the rest of the characters deal with the arrival of the Joker," the unnamed source shared excitement, reflecting the overall anticipation as Netflix prepares for this next phase.
Both shows revolve around high-stakes games where contestants must navigate heartbreakingly dangerous challenges, and it’s this thrilling premise that's drawing viewers. Each season showcases the psychological challenges characters face, often pushing them to their limits. Players, unable to escape their fates, must compete against one another to earn precious time or avoid deadly outcomes. "Both shows revolve around these terrible games, with players competing to stay alive" the unnamed source reiterated the tension underlying these series.
With the narrative style of Alice in Borderland, the game formats are not as fixed as Squid Game, leading to unique adaptations of the game mechanism. Unlike Squid Game, where the season's games conclude, Alice in Borderland continues feeding off the structure of adding more layers to the psychological aspects as it evolves. Contestants are often competing to extend their "visas, which is, of course, their only chance at survival.
Both shows face the challenge of maintaining viewer engagement as they extend their narratives, especially following impressive debut seasons. The challenge of reinforcing character attachments after significant plot changes is one they both must navigate, yet each possesses the opportunity to broaden their world through supporting characters or side stories—something Squid Game explored in its second season.
With many eager to see what twists and turns await them, it’s clear Netflix's strategy to exploit the ever-growing popularity of the death game genre remains strong—especially with these formidable entries. No doubt, fans of Squid Game, who enjoyed its intense gameplay and emotional themes, will similarly engage with Alice in Borderland. The combination of storytelling, character development, and relentless stakes promises fans of both series a thrilling 2025.