Netflix's brain survival show 'Devil's Plan' had a rocky start with its first season, which was met with negative reviews. However, the recently released 'Devil's Plan 2' has turned the tables, receiving praise for its thrilling villainous twists and strategic gameplay.
The introduction of a 'villain' character has been a game-changer, with viewers expressing excitement over the show's new dynamics. The second season has successfully addressed the shortcomings of the first by introducing new rules, genuine competition, and survival-worthy betrayals.
According to Netflix's Tudum Top 10 website, 'Devil's Plan 2' has amassed 1.7 million views within its first week, securing a spot in the global Top 10 non-English series. It has also topped the 'Top 10 Series in South Korea' and made it to the Top 10 lists in six countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Morocco.
Domestically, the show has seen a significant increase in buzz compared to its first season. Good Data Corporation's Fundex reports that 'Devil's Plan 2' ranked second in the TV-OTT integrated non-drama buzz category for the second week of May, with a buzz score more than double that of the first season. It topped the Voice of Netizen (VON) and SNS categories, with most posts praising the cast.
The success of the second season is attributed to the contestants' strategic approach to the brain survival game. Unlike the first season, where a YouTuber named Gwedo disrupted the survival essence by advocating for the weak, season two contestants are fully embracing the competitive spirit.
The first season's reliance on Gwedo's alliance led to passive 'wallflower players' and a skewed survival dynamic, frustrating viewers as skilled players were eliminated. The peculiar scenario of having seven out of twelve contestants advance to the semifinals further diluted the survival aspect. Gwedo's eventual defeat in the finals highlighted the flaws in his 'kind play' strategy.
In contrast, season two showcases the true essence of a brain survival game. Contestants like Yoon So-hee, Tino, Kyuhyun, Son Eun-yoo, Choi Hyun-joon, and Lee Sedol are engaging in strategic alliances and betrayals, enhancing the show's excitement. The presence of a believable betrayer and the contestants' efforts to form new alliances keep the audience engaged. Despite fierce competition, the contestants show camaraderie and support outside the game.
The revised game rules add to the excitement. The main match now includes a condition where '1 billion won is accumulated for each eliminated contestant,' preventing scenarios with no eliminations or prize accumulation. The introduction of the prison deathmatch adds another layer of thrill, as contestants fight their way back from the brink of elimination.
The final episode of 'Devil's Plan 2' is set to air on the 20th. With utilitarianism out of the picture, the show has become a dopamine-fueled brain survival experience, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the finale.
Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr