This post may contain affiliate links, which earn us commission. Learn more.
A Multiversal Return to Form
Season 3 of Marvel’s What If…? continues to deliver the inventive storytelling and dynamic character explorations that fans have come to expect from the animated anthology series. By weaving together narratives from previous seasons and introducing fresh scenarios, this installment offers a satisfying, albeit occasionally predictable, journey through the Marvel multiverse.
Strong Start with Fresh Energy
The season opens with “What If… The Hulk Fought the Mech Avengers?”, an episode that sets a high bar for the series. Critics have praised its energetic and entertaining approach, with Archi Sengupta of LeisureByte.com noting that it “starts off with a bang, with Bruce Banner and Sam Wilson facing a big and LOUD enemy!” The episode’s blend of action and humor effectively draws viewers back into the multiverse’s endless possibilities.
Interconnected Stories and Deeper Characters
Throughout the season, What If…? successfully merges characters and storylines from its earlier episodes, creating a cohesive narrative tapestry. Episodes like “What If… Agatha Went to Hollywood?” showcase this integration by placing familiar characters in novel contexts, leading to engaging and humorous outcomes. Joshua M. Patton of CBR highlights the episode’s strength, stating that “the story is rewarding and fun — if only because fans get a little more time with Agatha.” This approach not only entertains but also adds depth to characters whose stories were previously unexplored.
The Watcher’s Predictable Path
However, the season is not without its shortcomings. The overarching narrative involving the Watcher, while central to the series, unfolds in a manner that some may find predictable. In “What If… The Watcher Disappeared?”, the storyline delves into the Watcher’s interference and its consequences. Archi Sengupta remarks that the episode is “fantastic with an extremely engaging storyline, remarkable voicework and animation,” yet the trajectory of the Watcher’s arc lacks the unexpected twists that define other episodes.
A Finale That Almost Sticks the Landing
The season’s finale, “What If… What If?”, aims to provide a dramatic and action-packed conclusion to the series. While it succeeds in delivering high-stakes moments, some critics feel it falls short of the spectacular finish anticipated. Sengupta observes that the episode is “dramatic and action-packed, but nothing spectacular as one might expect!” This sentiment suggests that, despite its strengths, the finale doesn’t fully capitalize on the series’ potential for groundbreaking storytelling.
Visuals That Continue to Impress
Visually, Season 3 maintains the high standards set by its predecessors. The animation is both nuanced and vibrant, effectively bringing to life the diverse worlds and characters within the multiverse. This visual fidelity enhances the storytelling, immersing viewers in each unique scenario.
A Worthy Continuation Despite Flaws
Critically, the season has been well-received, holding a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 29 reviews. The consensus acknowledges that “What If…?’s final slate of hypothetical adventures can be a mixed bag, but a satisfying through-line ensures that this series’ overall worthiness doesn’t end on a question mark.” This reflects the season’s ability to balance inventive episodes with a coherent overarching narrative.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, Season 3 of What If…? offers fans a familiar yet fresh exploration of the Marvel multiverse. By successfully merging characters and ideas from previous seasons, it creates a rich tapestry of stories that entertain and engage. While the Watcher’s storyline may follow a predictable path, the season’s overall creativity and visual excellence solidify its place as a worthy continuation of the series.