Star Trek revisits iconic 58-year-old episode and brings back mysterious species for Strange New Worlds

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Warning: Spoilers ahead for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds episode season 3 episode 9.

In the latest season 3 episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled “Terrarium,” we see the show fearlessly experimenting with the franchise’s established history. This trend continues by delving back into a legendary episode from The Original Series.

The Terrarium scenario mirrors the timeless Star Trek narrative, Arena, where Erica Ortegas (played by Melissa Navia) finds herself abandoned on an uninhabited planet, beyond the reach of the Enterprise’s communication.

During her stay, she’s rescued by a Gorn named Warren Scherer. After this, they become friends and are able to understand each other through a translation device. However, by the episode’s end, Ortegas’s suspicions of being observed turn out to be correct when it’s disclosed that the entire event was part of an experiment orchestrated by the Metrons.

Humans and Gorn, two violent species seem destined for conflict. However, we wondered what might occur if they were compelled to coexist due to survival needs. This concept piqued our interest.

The interaction suggests that the Gorn didn’t require Ortegas for survival, but rather formed a friendship due to loneliness. Likewise, Ortegas managed to look beyond her suffering. Additionally, it implies that there is optimism for both of their species.

“The encounter indicates that the Gorn didn’t need Ortegas just to live, but instead found companionship because it was alone. Similarly, Ortegas could see past her hardships. It suggests a positive outlook for both their species.

If this scenario seems reminiscent, it’s because it shares many traits with a 1967 episode titled Arena. In this classic episode, Star Trek introduced the Metrons and featured them compelling Captain Kirk (played by William Shatner) to engage in a battle against a rival Gorn captain. Interestingly, Terrarium represents the first on-screen appearance of the Metrons since 1967, even though they were referenced in Discovery.

Without a doubt, Terrarium and Arena have their unique distinctions. In Terrarium, Ortegas and the Gorn form an alliance with the intention of escaping their planet. However, the Gorn meets his end at the hands of La’an before Ortegas can intervene. Conversely, in Arena, Kirk finds himself locked in a fight with the Gorn, a conflict that remains etched in Star Trek lore (even though Kirk declines to kill the Gorn Captain and chooses not to destroy his vessel).

As a devoted Star Trek fan, I must highlight that the episode “Terrarium” subtly foreshadows upcoming events. It suggests that the delicate relationship between humans and Gorn might never achieve harmony, hinting at potential future conflicts. Furthermore, it’s heartbreaking to witness Ortegas losing her memories, meaning she can’t warn Kirk about his later encounter with the Metrons.

So far this season, I’ve been privileged to witness some fascinating developments – the unveiling of insights about Spock, the comeback of beloved figures Q and Trelane, and a thrilling collaboration between Star Trek and Doctor Who that has made fans of both franchises extremely happy. Quite an exciting time for us, wouldn’t you agree?

Yet, as there’s one final episode left, it seems the Gorn saga isn’t over just yet. The outcome of Marie Batel (portrayed by Melanie Scrofano) remains uncertain, given her infection with Gorn genetic material.

Buckle in!

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is available to stream on Paramount+.

I recommend you include “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” in your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. This app provides daily TV suggestions, features, and more. So, go ahead and download it now!

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2025-09-04 16:38