Marvel Animation’s What If…? has always been an exploration of the multiverse, offering fans intriguing one-shot tales that take familiar characters and settings in unpredictable directions. However, Season 3 seems to aim at one primary goal: reminding audiences of Marvel characters, that have yet to make a second appearance in the MCU, still exist.
While the series’ episodic nature lends itself to entertaining standalone adventures, the overall narrative struggles to find cohesion, leaving viewers entertained but yearning for more.
Episode 1: Avengers Meet Kaiju
The season kicks off with a thrilling homage to Japanese pop culture, combining elements of Gundam, Voltron, Power Rangers, Pacific Rim and Godzilla as the Avengers face off against towering kaiju. This action-packed opener brings Shang-Chi and Moon Knight back into the spotlight, reminding us of their potential after extended absences from the MCU.
While visually stunning, the episode feels like a teaser for what could have been an incredible mecha-Avengers series, leaving fans wanting more of this unique concept.
Episode 2: Bollywood Meets Hollywood
Episode 2 takes an unexpected turn with a studio-recorded dance-off between Agatha Harkness and Kingo, creating a delightful clash of Bollywood and Hollywood. The return of the Eternals, Arishem, and the Celestials is a welcome nod to Marvel’s more cosmic side, which has been absent since the Eternals film.
Beneath the spectacle lies a heartwarming message about the power of movies and the possibility of happy endings. While lighthearted and fun, the episode’s lack of connection to the broader narrative makes it feel like a standalone party trick.
Episode 3: Russian Comrades and Iron Man Nostalgia
This episode pairs the Red Guardian and Winter Soldier, giving us a glimpse into their camaraderie as two Russian heroes. The unexpected return of Obadiah Stane, a callback to 2008’s Iron Man, adds nostalgic depth. Despite its charm, the episode doesn’t move the season’s overarching narrative forward, leaving it feeling like another isolated vignette.
Episode 4: Howard and Darcy’s Cosmic Family Drama
Arguably the oddest entry, Episode 4 follows Howard the Duck and Darcy as they navigate parenthood after their baby (or rather ‘egg’)—born during the Convergence—becomes a multiversal target. The story’s moral, “Parents are the greatest heroes of all,” is touching, but the episode’s quirkiness overshadows its emotional beats. It’s entertaining but ultimately lacks the gravitas to make a lasting impression.
Episode 5: The Emergence’s Aftermath
Here, the season begins to pick up steam. Set in a world devastated by the Celestial Emergence, Mysterio exploits the chaos, while heroes like Wong, Valkyrie, Shang-Chi’s aunt Ying Nan, and RiRi Williams rise to the challenge.
The Watcher’s growing interference signals a turning point, introducing a glimmer of hope in a fractured world. The Avengers’ symbol as a beacon of resilience is a standout theme, but the episode’s abrupt ending feels rushed.
Episode 6: Marvel Goes Western
In a refreshing departure, Shang-Chi and Kate Bishop take on the roles of lone rangers in a Western-inspired adventure against a new villain, The Hood.
Their dynamic shines, offering a partnership brimming with potential for future stories. Despite being disconnected from Episode 5’s events, this episode is one of the season’s strongest, balancing character development with genre experimentation.
Episode 7: Girl Power in the Multiverse
Episode 7 brings us back to the main plot as The Watcher faces trial for his actions.
Captain Carter, leading a team of Kahhori, Storm (now wielding Mjolnir as the Goddess of Thunder), and newcomer Byrdie (voiced by Natasha Lyonne, who has also been cast in an unknown role in Marvel Studios’ upcoming Fantastic Four film), works to aid him.
The exploration of The Watchers’ origins and their oath adds intriguing lore, but the episode’s pacing undermines its potential impact. Still, seeing Storm’s newfound powers is a season highlight.
Episode 8: The Watcher’s Reckoning
The finale centers on Uatu’s trial and the culmination of Captain Carter’s team’s efforts. While the battle showcasing The Watchers’ capabilities is amusing and visually spectacular, the season’s disjointed storytelling undermines the climax.
The rushed build-up leaves audiences disconnected from the stakes, making the resolution feel underwhelming despite its implications for The Watchers’ future.
Final Thoughts
What If…? Season 3 ultimately feels unnecessary. While the individual episodes offer entertaining what-if scenarios, the lack of narrative cohesion diminishes the season’s impact. Unlike previous seasons, which balanced standalone tales with a compelling overarching story, Season 3 struggles to tie its episodes together in a meaningful way.
The saving grace? Moments of brilliance, like the mecha Avengers concept, the cowboy Avengers aesthetic, and Storm’s transformation into the Goddess of Thunder. These glimpses of creativity remind fans why they fell in love with Marvel’s multiverse in the first place. However, as a whole, the season falls short of its potential, leaving audiences entertained but unfulfilled.