꧁ Shows I’ve Watched in 2025 ꧂

Watching

Completed

A very strong start, though some of the plotlines didn’t flow smoothly as it progresses—which I can overlook since it was still subjectively enjoyable. However, some of them felt somewhat out of place, particularly in the last episode (or the last two)—and the controversy caused by Netflix’s mistranslations didn’t help either (MDL ratings literally fell from 8.9 to 8.1).

Overall, I think it largely depends on how much you enjoy the couple’s chemistry.

8/10.

Completed

Indisputably the most well-deserved winner.

Jang Dongmin returns 10 years after his last survival game show, and he didn’t disappoint. He‘s by far the most complete player,  and what makes him even more fearsome is that he‘s not just a genius but also one with the greatest tenacity and a strong ’hard work is the most important’ ethic. Some people who are new to him might find his gameplay restrictive for others, but imo he elevates the games with approaches only he is capable of—meticulously too, which was interesting to watch.

Hong Jinho had a disappointing performance this season sadly, and the only excuse I can come up for him is that he was stuck with Steve Yea; otherwise, he really didn’t do much this season.

Heo Seong Beom - Knew he was capable from University War. I think he played decently well overall but was just overshadowed (reasonably so) by Jang Dongmin.

Acau - He was excellent in Accomplice Season 2, glad he managed to display some capability towards the end.

Xitsuh - Still entertaining to watch, both gameplay-wise and personality.

Steve Yea - No.1 Korean Poker Player so he does have some skills, but they did not match up to his sky-high ego or condescending attitude he displayed throughout, easily the most off-putting player for me this season.

Eon Kyu - Expected more from him since he was quite capable in The Time Hotel, but he performed poorly here and was simply outclassed.

Yurisa - Still one of my favorite players to watch, her learning to work as a team was an enjoyable character development arc. She’s capable too—would have been interesting if she made it further since it might have led to more competitive individual games (imo).

Choi Hye Seon - Most unlucky, felt that she did not managed to play up to her full potential due to all the unnecessary social conflicts.

Chungju Man - Not necessarily capable, but makes the most chaotic/eccentric plays which spiced up the show in a good way.

Others - Not much to say.

9/10.