When Squid Game debuted on Netflix in 2021, it took the world by storm, quickly becoming the platform's most-watched show. The South Korean survival thriller, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, captivated audiences with its brutal take on capitalism, social inequality, and human desperation.

With Squid Game Season 2, the stakes are higher, but so are expectations. Fans, especially in Europe, hoped for another thrilling ride, while skeptics questioned whether the sequel could match the originality and emotional impact of the first season.

Regarding fans in Sweden, several media actors and writers have described and criticized the release of Squid Games Season 2. In this article, I summarize reviews from eight sources, analyze key arguments, and assess whether the second season lives up to its predecessor.

TLDR: The Good, The Bad, and The Verdict

🔹 What Critics Liked:

• Cinematography & production value – Visually stunning with a high-budget feel.
  
  
• Expanded character development – Some critics praised the attempt to deepen the backstory of key characters.
  
  
• Still engaging – Despite its flaws, the show remains binge-worthy for many.
  
  
  

🔻 What Critics Disliked:

• Slower pacing – Lacks the relentless tension of Season 1.
  
  
• Predictable plot – Fails to introduce new twists and surprises.
  
  
• Weak social commentary – The capitalist critique is less impactful than before.
  
  
  
  

🔸 Audience Reaction:

• Harsher than critics – Many fans feel that Season 2 doesn't meet expectations.
  
  
• A mixed legacy – Some believe the show should have ended after Season 1.
• Squid Game Season 2 is visually strong but narratively weaker, making it a controversial sequel.

"5 Things I Dislike About Squid Game Season 2" – MovieZine

Swedish entertainment site MovieZine is known for its candid reviews, and Alexander Kardelo's take on Squid Game Season 2 is among the harshest. He argues that the new season fails to match the intensity and impact of the original and presents five major flaws that make it a disappointment.

First, he critiques the lack of brutal violence compared to Season 1. The original series was known for its shocking and merciless portrayal of deadly games where participants were killed in horrific ways. This aspect added to the intensity and emotional weight of the show, making it more than just a thriller—it was a psychological battle for survival. In Season 2, Kardelo argues that the toned-down violence removes much of the fear and suspense that made the first installment so gripping.

His second complaint is the slower pacing and weaker suspense. While Season 1 kept viewers on edge with non-stop tension, Kardelo feels that Season 2 drags in places and lacks the same level of unpredictability. Some episodes focus too much on character backstory rather than progressing the main plot, making them feel unnecessary.

Another issue is the predictability of the plot. The original Squid Game thrived on its ability to shock audiences. Instead of keeping this tension, Kardelo believes that Season 2 follows a more conventional TV structure, making it easier to anticipate key story developments. In his view, the sense of mystery and danger is largely gone.

He also criticizes the shorter episode count—just seven episodes, compared to longer seasons of other hit Netflix series. He argues this leads to rushed storytelling and missed opportunities to develop subplots more effectively.

Finally, Kardelo feels that the season repeats many of the same themes as its predecessor—capitalism, inequality, and survival—without offering anything new or thought-provoking. While these themes were powerful in 2021, he argues that the sequel does not evolve or expand upon them, making it feel redundant. 

"Indifferently, We Watch Squid Game 2" – Hanna Fahl, Dagens Nyheter

Hanna Fahl of Dagens Nyheter, one of Sweden's largest daily newspapers, takes a more analytical approach in her review. Rather than outright condemning or praising the season, she explores a broader issue in modern entertainment—how audiences engage with shows like Squid Game in today's streaming-dominated culture.

She begins by noting that while she watched Season 2, she never felt emotionally invested in it. This is not necessarily because the show is bad but because of a larger trend in consuming content today. With the endless flood of TV series, Fahl argues that even major cultural moments like Squid Game no longer feel as special as they once did.

Another aspect she critiques is the show's social commentary. Season 1 resonated worldwide because of its sharp critique of capitalism, inequality, and desperation. However, in Season 2, she feels the show struggles to add anything new to this discussion. The themes remain relevant, but the storytelling feels less impactful as viewers become accustomed to these messages in mainstream entertainment.

She also discusses the show's pacing, which, while not necessarily bad, feels uneven. Some episodes are strong and engaging, while others feel dragged out or unnecessary. This leads to losing momentum, making the show less gripping than before.  Fahl does not dismiss Squid Game Season 2 as a failure but sees it as a symptom of a bigger issue—the oversaturation of entertainment. The show isn't necessarily worse than other sequels, but even great TV struggles to feel meaningful in an era of endless content.

"Many Criticize the New Squid Game: 'An Extreme Disappointment'" – Filmtopp

The Swedish entertainment site Filmtopp takes a broader approach to reviewing Squid Game Season by focusing on audience reactions rather than just critical reviews. While many professional reviewers have given the season moderate to positive scores, general audiences have been much more divided, with a significant portion expressing disappointment. The article highlights the widespread frustration among fans who felt that the show failed to meet expectations set by its globally successful first season.

One of the main issues that Filmtopp points out is the incredibly high expectations after the groundbreaking first season. When Squid Game premiered in 2021, it was a cultural phenomenon that surprised audiences. The mix of social commentary, brutal survival games, and emotional storytelling created a unique experience. However, with Season 2, audiences already knew what to expect, and many felt that the show did not evolve beyond its original formula.

 Filmtopp suggests that this divide indicates that Squid Game has lost its universal appeal and has become a more niche experience for those still invested in the story. While critics have been fairly lenient, giving the season decent but not amazing scores, the audience score is significantly lower, showing that casual viewers were far more disappointed. Filmtopp presents Squid Game Season 2 as one of the most polarizing TV shows of the year. While some fans appreciate the continuation, others believe the show should have ended after Season 1. 

"Review: Squid Game Season 2" – Expressen

Swedish newspaper Expressen provides a more balanced and nuanced review of Squid Game Season 2. Unlike some harsher critics, reviewer Mattias Bergqvist acknowledges the season's strengths and weaknesses, presenting a more fair and measured assessment of how well it continues the original story.

Bergqvist starts by praising the high production quality of the season. One of Squid Game's biggest strengths has always been its visual storytelling, and Season 2 continues to deliver in this regard. The cinematography, set design, and overall atmosphere remain top-notch, making the show visually appealing and immersive. He also acknowledges that the season tries to develop its characters, providing more backstory and emotional depth to some key players.

However, Bergqvist finds that despite these positives, the season suffers several critical flaws. The pacing is a major issue. While the first season was full of tense, fast-paced moments, Season 2 slows down significantly, spending long stretches on dialogue and backstory rather than action. This might be a welcome change for some viewers, but it makes the show less exciting and engaging for others.

Another issue is that the plot is less surprising than in Season 1. The first season was full of unexpected twists, which kept audiences constantly on edge. In contrast, Season 2 follows a more conventional narrative structure, making predicting easier. This reduces the level of suspense and makes the season feel less innovative. While it retains many elements that made the original successful, it fails to push the boundaries similarly. 

"Review: Squid Game Season 2" – Göteborgs-Posten

The daily newspaper Göteborgs-Posten provides a mixed but thoughtful critique of Squid Game Season 2, focusing on its strong production value and weaker narrative execution. The text is written by Hynek Pallas, one of Sweden's most active and published movie and show critics.  Unlike some harsher reviews, this analysis acknowledges that the season still has merit but ultimately concludes that it fails to reach the heights of its predecessor.

One of the biggest strengths highlighted in the Pallas review is the show's technical execution. The cinematography, lighting, and set design are again of the highest standard, and the series maintains its signature visual storytelling style. The dystopian atmosphere of Squid Game remains intact, and the production team has worked hard to maintain the show's aesthetic appeal. For viewers drawn to the first season because of its unique style and dark themes, Season 2 still offers a visually immersive experience.

However, the review also points out that strong visuals are not enough to carry a show, and Göteborgs-Posten identifies several key weaknesses that hold Season 2 back. One major issue is the pacing, which is much slower than in Season 1. While the first season engaged audiences with intense, high-stakes survival games, the second season spent much more time developing backstories and setting up future conflicts. While this may appeal to some viewers who enjoy character-driven narratives, it comes at the expense of the suspense and unpredictability that made the original addictive.

Another common criticism is that the new season does not feel as fresh or innovative as its predecessor. Season 1 was a new concept, blending social critique with brutal survival games. However, in Season 2, many of these elements feel repetitive, and the show struggles to introduce new surprises. The review notes that while some new characters and subplots are interesting, they do not carry the same emotional weight as those in Season 1.

Göteborgs-Posten describes Squid Game Season 2 as a well-produced but underwhelming sequel.  The review concludes that while the season is watchable, it does not deliver the same emotional or narrative impact as the original.

"Squid Game 2 Divides Viewers – The Sequel is Here!" – Aftonbladet

Sweden's largest daily tabloid, Aftonbladet, provides a more audience-focused review of Squid Game Season 2. It highlights how divided the reactions have been. Unlike some purely critical reviews, this analysis examines the praise and criticism the season has received from viewers.

One of the key points Aftonbladet makes is that Season 2 has become one of the most polarizing Netflix sequels in recent years. While some fans appreciate the continuation of the story, others feel that the series should have ended after Season 1. The article cites discussions on social media and review platforms, where reactions range from excitement to outright disappointment

The review acknowledges that the season still has strong qualities. The visual style and cinematography remain high, and the show continues its critique of social inequality and economic desperation—themes that resonated deeply in the first season. Some fans appreciate the character development, as Season 2 takes more time to explore the psychology of its main characters, showing the long-term impact of the deadly games.

Additionally, some see the expansion of the Squid Game universe as a positive step. The new season gives viewers more insight into the organization behind the games, revealing how they operate and recruit participants. Some fans find this fascinating and necessary to deepen the show's lore.For those who loved the original, Season 2 is still worth watching, but it does not match the cultural impact of its predecessor.

On the other hand, Aftonbladet highlights several major issues that many fans have complained about. The first season had a constant sense of urgency, whereas Season 2, The Original Squid Game, kept viewers on edge with unpredictable betrayals and brutal eliminations. Season 2, by comparison, feels more structured and less surprising. Many fans feel that Squid Game was best as a one-season series. While still well-produced, the second season lacks the same impact and emotional weight as the original.

"Squid Game Season 2, The Illusion of Choice, and Depressive Logic" – Aftonbladet

Malin Krutmeijer, writing for Aftonbladet, takes a philosophical and politically critical approach in her review of Squid Game Season 2. Rather than simply evaluating the show's entertainment value, she delves into the deeper themes of free will, social conditioning, and economic despair that the series explores. She argues that the show is a brutal metaphor for the illusion of choice in modern society, making Season 2 an equally fascinating but uncomfortable experience.

Krutmeijer’s analysis argues that the Squid Game presents a deceptive form of choice. Individuals are given options that ultimately reinforce an inescapable system. The repeated line in the show illustrates this: "We only created the game. You participated voluntarily."

In her view, this notion of voluntary participation is a dangerous myth, both in the Squid Game universe and in real life. She connects this to real-world examples, such as financially struggling individuals feeling forced into exploitative work, only to have society blame them for their situation under the guise of personal responsibility. She argues that the show effectively exposes this contradiction and presents it in a dystopian yet disturbingly familiar way.

Krutmeijer acknowledges that Season 2 of Squid Game follows the same depressing logic as Season 1, where the characters are caught in an inescapable cycle of desperation. However, she argues that the brutality remains compelling because it forces viewers to confront their role as spectators.

Krutmeijer also places Squid Game within the larger context of South Korean history and politics. She points out that South Korea’s creative industry has flourished since democratization in the late 1980s, with many films and TV series tackling political and economic injustices. She references the 2020 Oscar-winning film Parasite, which, like Squid Game, critiques capitalism, inequality, and survival under a harsh economic system.

She also highlights the irony of the show’s real-world success, noting how Squid Game has been turned into a reality competition show, where contestants compete for cash prizes without the life-or-death stakes. This, she argues, proves the series's point: no matter how critical the message, capitalism finds a way to commodify and profit from it. She finds the season brutal and thought-provoking. While it does not surpass the originality of the first season, it remains a powerful critique of economic and social despair.

"Everything We Know About Squid Game Season 2" – SVT

Swedish public broadcaster SVT takes a more neutral and informative approach to its Squid Game Season 2 coverage. Rather than providing a strong critique or praise, the article provides a comprehensive guide for Swedish audiences who want to know what to expect from the second season.

One of the article's main points is that Squid Game has been one of the most successful TV series in modern history, and expectations for Season 2 were sky-high. The show's unique blend of survival thriller, social commentary, and emotional storytelling made it a global sensation. SVT explores how Netflix and creator Hwang Dong-hyuk approached the challenge of continuing the story, considering that the first season had a definitive ending.

While Season 1 focused on the contestants, Season 2 shifted some attention to the people running the games. The season spends more time on character backstories and motivations, which some fans appreciate, while others find it slows down the pacing. Unlike Season 1, which had constant eliminations, Season 2 has longer stretches of dialogue and strategy-building.

SVT explains that while some fans enjoy the increased world-building, others feel that losing constant tension and deadly challenges makes the show less thrilling. SVT highlights how the reception has been divided between casual viewers and hardcore fans. Some praise the show for expanding the lore, while others miss the intensity and unpredictability of the first season.

Rather than offering a strong opinion, SVT presents Squid Game Season 2 as a continuation that attempts to expand its universe, but not everyone will be satisfied with the new direction. It suggests that the season is worth watching for fans, but those expecting a repeat of the original's intensity may feel disappointed.

"Squid Game Season 2: Not as Powerful as Before, But Still Holds Its Style" – Filmtopp

The Swedish entertainment site Filmtopp provides one more review of Squid Game Season 2, acknowledging its strengths and weaknesses. Unlike harsher critiques that label the season a disappointment, Filmtopp recognizes that while Season 2 does not match the groundbreaking impact of Season 1, it still delivers a compelling viewing experience in many ways.

One of the biggest strengths highlighted in the review is the consistent visual style and production quality. The cinematography, color palette, and overall artistic design remain top-notch, making Squid Game one of Netflix's most visually striking productions. The show continues to present a dystopian world filled with tension, mystery, and eerie aesthetics, maintaining the dark and suspenseful atmosphere that defined Season 1.

Another positive aspect is the expanded character development. Season 2 takes more time to explore the psychology of key figures, particularly Gi-hun, the protagonist, who is now seeking to uncover the secrets behind the deadly games. Some critics appreciate this shift, as it provides a more in-depth look at the survivors' emotional struggles rather than focusing on new contestants playing the games.

Despite these strengths, Filmtopp points out several areas where Season 2 fails to deliver the same impact as the original. One of the defining traits of Squid Game was the constant sense of danger, where any character could die at any moment. In Season 2, the stakes feel lower, and the structure is more predictable, making the series less nerve-wracking. 

Filmtopp describes Squid Game Season 2 as a solid but less impactful sequel. It retains the strong visual appeal and core themes but lacks the shock factor, narrative tension, and innovation that made the first season a global phenomenon. While fans will still find elements to enjoy, it is not as groundbreaking as before. However, Filmtopp argues that Season 2 does not bring much new insight to these discussions.

Concluding Reflections

The split reaction to Squid Game Season 2 raises an important question: Can a cultural phenomenon like this ever truly be replicated?

Many TV sequels struggle to live up to their first seasons, especially when a show is originally intended as a standalone story. In 2021, Squid Game became iconic because it was fresh, shocking, and socially relevant. By 2024, the TV landscape had changed, and audiences were harder to impress.

Netflix and creator Hwang Dong-hyuk must take risks for the future of Squid Game. If they plan a Season 3, they must introduce bold new elements instead of rehashing old ideas. The franchise still has potential, but only if it evolves.

If you loved the first season, Season 2 is still worth watching—but lower your expectations. It's a solid continuation but doesn't reinvent itself like the first season.

📌 Recommended for fans who want more character development.
🚫 Not recommended for those expecting the same level of shock and originality.

Squid Game Season 2 may not have matched the brilliance of its predecessor, but it keeps the conversation going. Whether that's enough is up to the audience.

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