Marvel’s What If…? Season 3 Episode 5 Review - Powerful and Action Packed

The Watcher’s omnipresent gaze falls upon a universe teetering on the brink of chaos. This time, he watches with a heavy heart as soldiers from the Iron Federation march through desolate streets, signaling the arrival of war. Amidst the turmoil, Riri Williams maneuvers through shadowy alleyways, determined to uncover clues that could alter the fate of her world. The Watcher reveals her as the universe's best hope, yet despair looms large as every attempt she makes seems to lead to failure.

Riri’s journey takes her to a Power Broker who offers her a magnetron, a device critical to her mission. However, the broker’s betrayal leads to an ambush by the Iron Federation. Despite her courage, she finds herself cornered and nearly killed by Mysterio, the cunning mastermind pulling the strings behind the Federation. In a dramatic turn, members of the Alliance—Ying Nan, Valkyrie, and others—arrive just in time to save her.

The narrative unfolds on a fractured Earth, forever changed by the Emergence, an event that preceded the Eternals’ intervention. In this alternate timeline, Quentin Beck (Mysterio) seized the chaos to tighten his grip on humanity. His Iron Federation clashes endlessly with the Alliance, who fight valiantly but are losing ground. Beck, intent on eradicating the Alliance, sends Vision to destroy the remaining rebels.

Riri learns of the Alliance’s desperate strategy to neutralize the Federation. Ying Nan explains their plan for her to construct a weapon capable of disarming Vibranium, a resource critical to the Federation’s power. Initially hesitant, Riri is awestruck by the Alliance’s advanced operations, reigniting her resolve. However, her trial intensifies when Vision launches a sudden attack, forcing Riri to build the weapon in a mere seven and a half minutes. As the others struggle to delay Vision, Riri races against time. In a climactic confrontation, she activates the weapon, successfully disabling Vision. The victory, however, is bittersweet as Beck vows vengeance, and the Alliance abandons their hideout to avoid detection.

As the episode concludes, the Watcher reflects on Riri’s unyielding spirit. While her determination offers a glimmer of hope, he foresees her sacrifices leading to an inevitable end. The grim forewarning underscores the episode’s poignant themes of resilience and loss.

This installment stands out for its intricate plot and riveting action sequences, elevating the stakes far beyond the series’ earlier episodes. The dynamic between Riri’s underdog heroism and the Watcher’s detached perspective adds layers of depth, making their arcs equally compelling. The vibrant visuals, nuanced character designs, and atmospheric details create a stunning viewing experience that amplifies the emotional weight of the story.

Unlike the lighter, whimsical episodes, this chapter leans heavily into introspection and drama, leaving a lasting impression. It masterfully blends personal stakes with broader conflicts, offering a fresh perspective on the multiverse’s untapped potential. While the knowledge that this marks the final season adds a bittersweet edge, it also heightens anticipation for what lies ahead. In every sense, this is a solid, thought-provoking episode.

Final Score- [7/10]