Netflix’s hit survival series Alice in Borderland is back with a long-awaited third season. This season wastes no time pulling viewers back into the intense world of deadly games. Released on September 25, the new season has six episodes, shorter than the previous two seasons, which each had eight. The story continues after protagonists Ryohei Arisu (Kento Yamazaki) and Yuzuha Usagi (Tao Tsuchiya) thought they had finally escaped the Borderland.
The season opens with Arisu and Usagi living a presumably normal life together in the real world, seemingly free from their past in the Borderland. But the peace is shattered when Usagi mysteriously disappears, pulling Arisu back into the games to save her. Their return sets the stage for new challenges, more danger, and deeper emotional stakes.
Fans will see the return of characters from previous seasons, such as Chishiya (Nijirō Murakami), Kuina (Aya Asahina), and Ann (Ayaka Miyoshi), along with the introduction of new faces like Ryuji (Kento Kaku), a university professor fascinated by near-death experiences who plays a pivotal role in the Borderland’s events. Alongside these characters come new games such as Sacred Fortunes, Runaway Train, and Possible Futures, some of which are adapted from the original manga series.
However, one thing that isn’t explored in the manga series is the final Joker card. After players clear all numbered and face cards of the four suits, they are confronted with the Joker. At first, the meaning was unclear, but after putting more thought into it, I came to the conclusion that it’s meant to represent a guide of the Borderland. The Borderland itself is a mysterious realm between life and death. It’s where people end up when they’re near death in the real world. It reflects the unpredictable forces that shape human destiny, while also pointing out life’s fragility. It brings the question of whether humans really have autonomy, or if their free will may be more of an illusion than reality.
Even with a smaller runtime, it carried many strengths. My personal favorite game was Zombie Hunt, a high-stakes game where players choose from a limited set of cards, including special ones: Zombie, Shotgun, and Vaccine. The goal is to end with the largest team after a set number of one-on-one battles, even if that team is made up of zombies. I enjoyed this game most because it requires players to use strategy. It is a game of deception and mystery, as allies can quickly turn into enemies.
Still, the season has its flaws. Certain scenes felt rather rushed or dragged. Online, twists are being compared to other survival shows like Squid Game. Some fans also argue that the story should have ended with Season 2. While I agree that more episodes could have given games more breathing room, I don’t think the season was a weak addition.
Overall, Alice in Borderland Season 3 keeps the suspense and action that made the show popular while also leaving viewers with plenty to think about after its close. Even if it may not top its earlier seasons for all viewers, it’s still a must-watch for fans who enjoy thrilling games, emotional risks, and stories that pull at your heartstrings.
