After being one of the most critical reviewers of the last two episodes, I’m happy to say that things are looking up for this series. My main criticism still stands – that this series doesn’t need to exist – but this latest entry makes a strong enough case for the opposite that I’m prepared to reconsider, should the next two continue this upward curve. Episode three of MSM then, is a blast.
The action once again picks up where we were, but from there, the pace doesn’t let up. It’s definitely the best paced episode so far, with really nicely directed action, much more interesting character moments, some darker themes and good performances from the ever-growing cast.
When the episode started with an interactive opening credits sequence as it usually does, I was thinking that the developers seem to put more effort into these parts than the meat of the game. The sequence in this one was especially fun though, so it got my attention. Thankfully that attention was rewarded and my cynicism firmly slapped down, by even better moments as the episode went on.
There are plenty more set-pieces here, which are far more entertaining and less arbitrary than any previous ones. They’re imaginative too, leveraging the core principles of Minecraft to create some really nice sequences that deliver even more of those, “I’d love to do that in the real game!” moments that I’ve praised before. Seriously, automated Iron Golem death trap room is awesome, but that’s just one of many great moments.
The talky bits too, are much more engaging. This is thanks both to some nice plot twists and a wonderful performance from John Hodgman. Hodgman in particular is really entertaining, with some genuinely funny quips and perfect comic timing. His performance is helped by a wonderfully eccentric characterisation and generally better material to work with.
Throughout the episode and especially towards the end, there are some darker themes that add a lot of weight to proceedings. This is something that was sorely lacking before, with even the supposedly scary parts having so much levity to them that they were insulting to even a five year old’s emotional intelligence. No such pandering here, thankfully.
Of course, the episode is still ultra kid-friendly and mega accessible. But after two distinctly dumbed down episodes, the formula finally feels simplified rather than just simple.
Summary
For once, I can be happy about this series. This episode has cut a lot of the arbitrary button mashing, forced references and baby dialogue, in favour of a fast faced, imaginative outing with stronger character moments. There are great set pieces and fun new faces, with more emotionally mature storytelling that sets a good foundation for the rest of the adventure. I sincerely hope they can nail the landing, after such a dull start.
Dean was a regular ICXM contributor between 2015–2017, publishing 39 articles across game reviews, Windows and PC, and Xbox news. Their work focused on hands-on reviews, platform commentary, and breaking-news reporting during the Xbox One X launch year and Microsoft’s wider Play Anywhere / UWP gaming initiative. They post on X as @SpookyWomble.