Squid Game Season 2 has shattered records, becoming the first Netflix series to debut at number one in all 93 countries where the streaming platform operates.
This achievement includes dominating markets with the highest subscriber bases, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as countries with smaller viewer pools.
Netflix has yet to release official viewership figures for the new season, but the series' unparalleled global reception suggests that its cultural and entertainment impact remains unyielding.
In contrast, Season 1, which amassed over 2.2 billion viewing hours, did not achieve such a simultaneous debut across the board. Despite its groundbreaking release, Season 2 has received mixed reviews, earning a 64% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes compared to the 74% garnered by Season 1.
Critics and viewers have noted that the latest installment, which comprises fewer episodes than its predecessor, ended abruptly, leaving fans speculating whether this sets the stage for a more satisfying conclusion in the anticipated third season.
The original Squid Game captured global attention in 2021 with its exploration of social inequality and survival, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series at the time. Season 2 appears to have leveraged this momentum, securing a record-breaking debut despite the lukewarm reception from some fans.
While debates on its artistic merit persist, the numbers reflect an undeniable triumph for Netflix, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Squid Game franchise. Season 3, expected to arrive somewhere in the second half of 2025, could prove pivotal in addressing the criticisms faced by the second season and cementing its legacy.
IOL