When “Squid Game: The Challenge” was announced as an inevitable “real life” version of the global phenomenon “Squid Game,” we were concerned. But after watching the competition series, consider us converts! While the series doesn’t quite have the character driven emotional complexity of its fictional counterpart, it does scratch that primal competitive itch.
Fans of “Survivor” and “Big Brother” will find themselves right at home here. Since actual murder of the competitors isn’t on the table, the show found ways to up the social game. As a byproduct fans of other reality competition shows will recognize that the producers have are well versed in the genre and put their skills to work.
Do you need to have seen “Squid Game” to watch “Squid Game: The Challenge”?
Technically? No, but it certainly helps (also we just generally highly recommend the original series). Familiarity with the challenges adds a meta complexity for the players, and being armed with the knowledge certainly helps as an audience member. However its structured in a way that is not technically exclusionary to new audiences, without being overly expositional.
More about “Squid Game: The Challenge”
456 real players will enter the competition show in pursuit of a life-changing reward of USD $4.56 million. As they compete through a series of games inspired by the original show – plus surprising new additions – their strategies, alliances, and character will be put to the test while competitors are eliminated around them.
“Squid Game: The Challenge” will roll out over three dates with 5 episodes premiering November 22nd, 4 episodes premiering November 29th, and the finale hitting December 6th.
