Twisted Metal Season 2 Debuts to Strong Critical Praise

Twisted Metal Season 2 Arrives with High Critical Acclaim

The second season of the action-comedy series Twisted Metal, based on the popular video game franchise, has officially premiered on Peacock. Following its release, critics have seemingly re-evaluated their opinions, as the collective reception for Season 2 is significantly more positive than that of its predecessor.

To put it in perspective, the first season garnered a 67% positive rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, though general audiences were much more enthusiastic, giving it a 93% score. In stark contrast, Twisted Metal Season 2 currently boasts an impressive 91% "fresh" rating from critics. The new season is widely praised for its increased action, strong acting performances, sharp humor, and well-developed characters.

What Critics Are Saying About Season 2

• Roger Ebert gave the season a "thumb up," suggesting that while the first season felt like a forced attempt to capitalize on video game adaptation hype, the second season is a genuine effort to satisfy both long-time fans and newcomers. Critics noted a significant improvement in action, personality, character development, and humor across the 12 episodes, echoing the idea that comedy series often need a season to find their footing.


• Brian Tallerico (CBR) scored it 80/100, highlighting that despite its absurd characters and pop culture references, Twisted Metal is a deeply human show. He found it surprising how the second season makes viewers empathize with its strange and violent characters by never forgetting their humanity. Praise was given for focusing on action without losing sight of characters, the continued development of the Disunited States of America's factions, and authentic performances from both returning and new cast members. However, some criticisms included characters dying too early, unresolved mysteries, and an over-reliance on pop culture references.


• Joshua M. Patton (Bloody Disgusting) also gave an 80/100, describing the season as high-octane madness that encourages viewers to embrace its "turn off your brain, give in to the metal" energy. It's noted for its powerful explosions and extreme destruction, calling it magnificent B-movie insanity that achieves its goals while delivering immense fun. The season's ending also hints at an even more extreme third season.


• Daniel Kurland (Ready Steady Cut) rated it 75/100, stating that the game series' unsuitability for adaptation ironically becomes the show's biggest strength. The series manages to extrapolate the vehicles, characters, and plot elements to fit a 12-episode TV format while maintaining the spirit of the game. The humor successfully balances the silliness of the games with a touch of seriousness. A minor drawback mentioned was that some familiar game characters become "cannon fodder" before being fully explored, partly due to shorter episode runtimes.


• Jonathon Wilson (MovieWeb), with a 75/100, noted that Twisted Metal ramps up the humor, gore, and vehicular combat. Anthony Carrigan's portrayal of Calypso delighted fans of the classic games, taking center stage in the tournament. The addition of two episodes, totaling 12, allows for a deeper narrative and more character arcs. While it might feel a bit long due to added explanations, the show keeps things engaging with a constant stream of new fatalities. The season's strength lies in not letting spectacle overshadow its characters, even if it means more dialogue and less constant fighting, which might not appeal to everyone.


• Julian Roman (FandomWire) gave it 70/100, emphasizing that with its abundance of action and car crashes, the second season is much closer to the original game series. It's an exciting and amusing action-comedy that stands out among other video game adaptations. While it might not be as "sharp" as the first season, it delivers more of what fans truly desired. If R-rated racing and goofy humor are what you're after, this season has plenty to offer.

What This Means for Players and Fans

The improved critical reception for Twisted Metal Season 2 suggests that the show has found its stride, learning from the first season's reception and delivering a more refined and exciting experience. For fans of the classic games, this means a truer adaptation that doesn't shy away from its roots while also deepening character interactions. With only the first three episodes currently available on Peacock and the remaining nine set to release weekly, viewers have much more to look forward to. This positive buzz could also bode well for the future of the series, hinting at more high-octane vehicular mayhem to come.