Why 'Alice in Borderland' Could Out-survive 'Squid Game' and Shatter Its Netflix Record

Remember the global craze of 'Squid Game'? Now, imagine a survival thriller set in a deserted, neon-lit Tokyo. 'Alice in Borderland' isn't just another show; it's a high-stakes game that might become Netflix's next big hit, potentially even surpassing 'Squid Game' in popularity.

While 'Squid Game' trapped players on an island, 'Alice in Borderland' throws them into a vast, empty Tokyo. This huge, mysterious setting immediately sets it apart. Instead of just trying to survive, the characters must also figure out why they're in this bizarre, altered reality. This unseen force behind the games keeps viewers hooked.

In 'Alice in Borderland,' people suddenly find themselves in an empty version of Tokyo after a strange event. They're forced to play deadly games to stay alive, without any explanation. 'Squid Game,' on the other hand, recruits people with serious money problems, promising them a huge cash prize if they win.

Complex and High-Stakes Games

The games themselves also differ. 'Squid Game' uses deadly versions of childhood games. 'Alice in Borderland' features a wide range of challenges, categorized by playing card suits. These range from tough physical contests to complex mental puzzles. This means players need different skills – teamwork, mental strength, and physical endurance – making each episode surprising. The games in 'Alice in Borderland' feel more creative and push the boundaries of the survival genre, while 'Squid Game' uses familiar childhood games with fatal consequences.

Stronger Cliffhangers and Storytelling Depth

'Alice in Borderland' is praised for its captivating story and cliffhangers at the end of each season. These keep viewers eagerly waiting for the next season. One finale, for example, introduces face card games and the mysterious Joker card, leaving audiences desperate for answers. 'Squid Game' provides a more definitive ending, offering emotional closure, but doesn't use suspenseful twists as much. The complex narrative and suspenseful endings of 'Alice in Borderland' create a binge-worthy experience that keeps viewers interested for the long haul.

Appeal to a Broader Audience with Sci-Fi Elements

'Squid Game' is rooted in social issues and appeals to a mature audience. 'Alice in Borderland,' however, leans into science fiction and fantasy, attracting younger viewers and fans of genre-bending thrillers. This wider appeal, combined with its grand scale, allows 'Alice in Borderland' to attract a diverse audience beyond just survival drama fans. The iconic "Red Light, Green Light" scene in 'Squid Game' is chilling in its simplicity, reflecting the show's social commentary. In 'Alice in Borderland,' a deadly game of tag unfolds in a surreal, abandoned city with laser beams and shifting rules, heightening the sci-fi tension.

Scope for Growth and Expansion with Upcoming Seasons

With 'Alice in Borderland' season 3 confirmed for release in fall 2025, promising "The Final Game" and more exploration beyond the original manga, the series is set for a surge in popularity. This new season could build on its existing momentum and storytelling, potentially surpassing 'Squid Game's record-breaking viewership by offering fresh content that resonates globally.

While both shows feature deadly games, 'Alice in Borderland' offers unique tension and complexity that many fans find more intense and unpredictable. Although 'Squid Game' remains Netflix’s most-watched non-English series, 'Alice in Borderland's momentum, imaginative storytelling, and global reach suggest it could soon take the lead.