Marvel Studios’ What If…? Season 3, which premiered on Disney+ on December 22, 2024, and concluded on December 29, 2024, continues to dazzle audiences by exploring alternate realities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This final season, comprising eight episodes, offers a delightful blend of creativity, humor, and unexpected twists that breathe new life into beloved characters and storylines.
The series was a fantastic method in which to rope in the more casual viewer into the world of alternate universes and variants (doppelgangers) It also gave the more hardcore fans something to digest while they waited for the more mainstream offerings.
A Symphony of Genres and Styles
Season 3 boldly experiments with various genres and artistic styles, delivering episodes that range from anime-inspired adventures to Western-themed tales. One standout episode, “Go-Avengers: Heroes of the Gamma War,” pays homage to classic mecha anime, featuring the Avengers piloting giant robots to combat a horde of Mega-Hulk monsters. This creative approach not only showcases the versatility of the MCU but also provides a fresh perspective on familiar heroes.
Unexpected Character Pairings and Scenarios
The season excels in presenting unconventional character pairings and scenarios that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. An episode featuring Howard the Duck and Dr. Darcy Lewis forming an unlikely couple stands out for its comedic and lighthearted narrative. Their madcap adventure, involving the protection of their egg-baby from various MCU factions, offers a refreshing departure from the more serious tones of previous seasons.
Integration of Lesser-Known Characters
By spotlighting lesser-known characters, Season 3 enriches the MCU’s expansive universe. Episodes featuring Agatha Harkness as a cosmic flapper and Shang-Chi as a cowboy in a Western setting provide depth and backstory to these characters, enhancing their roles within the broader MCU narrative.
Visual Excellence and Animation
The animation quality in Season 3 is exceptional, with each episode employing distinct visual styles that complement their unique narratives. The anime-inspired episode, in particular, stands out for its vibrant and dynamic animation, capturing the essence of 1970s and 1980s anime aesthetics.
Critical Reception and Audience Engagement
While some critics have noted inconsistencies in the series’ tone and structure, Season 3 has been praised for its willingness to embrace the more fantastical and whimsical aspects of the MCU. The season holds an 81% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating generally favorable reviews.
Conclusion
What If…? Season 3 serves as a fitting conclusion to the series, celebrating the limitless possibilities of the multiverse with creativity and humor. By exploring diverse genres, unexpected character dynamics, and imaginative scenarios, the season offers a joyful and playful experience that resonates with both longtime Marvel fans and newcomers alike.
Personally, I am disheartened this series is now ending. However, with the new Spider-Man animated show hitting early 2025, I should be able to console myself. Let us not forget, that the Animated X-Men series is confirmed for season 2 and maybe even a third season.
