Marvel’s What If…? Season 3 Episode 1 Review - Good Start

Marvel’s What If...? has always excelled at blending the bizarre with the captivating, and the Season 2 premiere doesn’t disappoint. Episode 1, "What If… the Hulk Fought the Mech Avengers?", plunges viewers into an alternate timeline where Bruce Banner’s relentless pursuit to cure his gamma-induced transformations spirals into a disaster of epic proportions. The result? An apocalyptic world overrun by “Gamma Beasts,” grotesque creatures fueled by gamma radiation, with the Hulk reigning supreme as their Apex Predator.

The episode opens with a haunting montage of Banner’s failed experiments, each attempt pushing the boundaries of science and morality. What begins as a quest for redemption quickly devolves into a nightmare, as his experiments inadvertently unleash a plague of mutations. The world-building in these initial moments is impeccable, painting a grim picture of a planet ravaged by radioactive kaiju. Cities lie in ruins, and the Avengers face their greatest challenge yet: battling an ever-growing horde of Gamma Beasts, led by a Hulk more feral and uncontrollable than ever.

With this overwhelming threat, Earth’s Mightiest Heroes resort to an equally radical solution: giant mech suits. The sight of Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and Black Widow piloting towering mechanical constructs is both thrilling and nostalgic, evoking memories of classic mecha anime. The suits aren’t just tools of destruction—they’re a testament to Tony Stark’s genius, equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and the ability to combine into a massive Avenger Megazord. This Voltron-inspired twist is a fan service moment that’s equally absurd and exhilarating.

The animation is a standout feature, seamlessly blending the gritty post-apocalyptic setting with the sleek, futuristic design of the mech suits. The action sequences are breathtaking, particularly the climactic battle between the Avenger Megazord and the Apex Hulk. The fight choreography captures the sheer scale and intensity of the conflict, with buildings crumbling and shockwaves rippling as titans clash.

However, the episode isn’t just about high-octane action. It delves into the emotional core of the story, exploring Banner’s guilt and the Avengers’ desperation. Mark Ruffalo delivers a haunting performance as an increasingly broken Banner, his voice trembling with regret and fear. Meanwhile, the camaraderie and determination of the Avengers shine through, providing a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak narrative.

While the episode’s premise is undeniably outlandish, it works because of the show’s commitment to its "what if" ethos. The blend of science fiction, superhero drama, and mecha spectacle is audacious but perfectly executed, making this episode a compelling start to the season. The only drawback is the pacing—some plot points, like the origin of the mech suits, feel rushed and could have benefited from more screen time.

In conclusion, "What If… the Hulk Fought the Mech Avengers?" is a thrilling and emotionally charged episode that sets a high bar for the rest of the season. It reminds us why What If...? remains one of Marvel’s most innovative projects, proving that sometimes the wildest ideas make for the most unforgettable stories.

Final Score- [7/10]