The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 review: Sticks the landing through hell and high water

The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 review: Sticks the landing through hell and high water

As a seasoned fantasy enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in the intricate worlds of Tolkien and Martin, I must say that The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 has proven to be an absolute gem in the ever-expanding realm of animated fantasy.


The beloved Legend of Vox Machina season 3 voice actors have certainly had a mammoth task on their hands adapting the colossal Chroma Conclave arc, with the highly anticipated third season of the animated fantasy series promising an affecting end to this chapter.

In the final episode of the sophomore season, there was a significant suspense-building moment as a large number of dragon eggs were hinted at, suggesting catastrophic consequences for the land of Exandria should these dragons ever hatch and form an army.

With a captivating base established, the third season now faces a crucial responsibility – ensuring a satisfying conclusion to this beloved storyline by sticking the landing effectively.

However, that’s no mean feat, considering the hours and hours of interwoven story, complex character arcs and various locations which need to be distilled down to fit the 12-episode run.

Regardless of some overly dramatic hiccups throughout, The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 undeniably delivers as a fantastic piece of animated fantasy.

The Critical Role group takes a bold step with their largest season ever, expanding on solid groundwork with even more surprising plot twists, emotional upheavals, and their grandest fight scenes yet.

The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 review: Sticks the landing through hell and high water

After the season 2 finale, events quickly unfold as Vox Machina learns where Thordak’s brood of eggs is hidden, thanks to Raishan’s (voiced by Cree Summer) unexpected disclosures.

The main objective is advancing the Vestiges of Divergence mission, with the aim that newly discovered artifacts will aid in defeating both Thordak (previously voiced by Lance Riddick) and Vorugal (voiced by Liam O’Brien). Yet, it’s important to note that these last members of the Chroma Conclave are not the only adversaries they’ll encounter on their journey.

Simultaneously, the core interactions and complex family bonds – encompassing both blood ties and romantic ones – undergo testing, partly due to the tense partnership with Raishan.

Without a doubt, one of the most impressive aspects of the latest season lies in its skillful extension of the show’s initial premise, notably in the episode “The Siege of Emon,” where two seasons of narrative build-up reach a climax. In this episode, the group, much like in Avengers: Endgame, amass an army comprised of their distant allies to confront the Cinder King.

In this rendition, the story brings back beloved characters along with several other key players, leading to a thrilling confrontation filled with surprising twists that impact our main protagonists significantly.

The situation is extremely critical, but luckily, the producers aren’t afraid to tackle the pivotal scenes from the initial series, which bring about severe repercussions for some characters. Buckle up!

Fortunately, there are still many surprises left for Critters fans, since the original campaign story has undergone several changes (and some thoughtful enhancements). Don’t worry, though, these adjustments only serve to improve things, as the series wraps up in a more hopeful and satisfying manner. Despite some essential scenes being trimmed, it still delivers an overall positive conclusion.

The Legend of Vox Machina season 3 review: Sticks the landing through hell and high water

Initially, the first two seasons focused mainly on Whitestone and Emon in Tal’Dorei, interspersed with side quests to gather Vestiges. However, this eclectic group of characters is now venturing into thrilling new places and realms. The striking hell realm has stolen the spotlight as an exceptional setting for one of Pike’s (portrayed by Ashley Johnson) most memorable – and long-awaited – scenes to date.

A significant portion of the party is once more granted the spotlight, with Keyleth (portrayed by Marisha Ray) taking center stage as she advances and develops into a more confident leader, displaying self-assurance in herself and her remarkable abilities during several impressive scenes and confrontations.

In a new development, Scanlan’s (Riegel’s voice) character is given a touching storyline that delves deeper into his relationship with his daughter, Kaylie (Kileigh Gallagher). On the other hand, Percy’s (Taliesin Jaffe’s voice) tale – a man tormented by his history – seems to follow familiar patterns, and at times, it unintentionally takes away from the main storyline.

Beyond that, without the humor provided by Grog (performed by Travis Willingham), and the amusing banter between Scanlan and Pike (with their frequent ‘Vesticles’ jokes being particularly enjoyable), the series might veer too much into melodramatic scenes, potentially causing a significant inconsistency in its overall tone.

Once more, Titmouse delivers an exceptional performance, vividly depicting numerous enchanting worlds, fantastical beings, and thrilling action scenes in stunning animation. Notable moments include a particularly intense confrontation in hell, the extensive battle at Emon, and the remarkable (and reminiscent of The Last Airbender) finale where Keyleth engages with a specific dragon menace.

In addition, the animation studio persists in hiding characters resembling Matt Mercer’s persona as a Dungeon Master within the series, just like before.

Supporters of Scanlan’s musical interludes can expect no letdown, as there are numerous delightful enhancements in store for them, not to mention an outstanding ending credit song performed by Matt Mercer.

Despite the main issue being the challenging balance of multiple intense character developments and storylines that detract from the show, the finale offers redemption by wrapping up in a far more positive and hopeful manner compared to the initial online broadcast’s outcome.

Meanwhile, hinting at another suspenseful confrontation with a formidable villain (yet to be officially confirmed for renewal on Prime Video), the Critical Role team has undeniably achieved an impressive feat by adapting such a vast and enchanting piece of fantasy, centering around a charming group of unlikely heroes.

Although it would undoubtedly be disappointing if the series doesn’t get renewed after that hint, another adaptation of CR’s second campaign, The Mighty Nein, is quickly approaching. In fact, star Sam Reigel has hinted at a show that will have a “completely different tone” compared to Vox Machina.

Roll on the Wildemount adventures!

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2024-09-30 17:36