When Squid Game premiered on Netflix in 2021, few could have predicted the scale of its impact. The South Korean survival drama, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, didn’t just capture a domestic audience; it took over the globe. It’s chilling blend of childhood games and deadly stakes quickly became a talking point worldwide, topping Netflix charts in over 90 countries. Since then, it has evolved into a full-fledged cultural force, with Season 2 breaking viewership records and a third season officially on the horizon.
Season 2 reaffirmed the franchise’s staying power. Within just four days of its debut, the second season racked up 68 million views, and that number exploded to over 126 million by day 11. These numbers not only showcase its enduring popularity but also prove that the series is far from a one-hit wonder. Audiences returned for more of the show’s intense psychological tension, rich symbolism, and commentary on class disparity. And with a confirmed Season 3 in development, fans are eager to see where the story goes next, and whether it can maintain its razor-sharp edge.
What’s helped cement Squid Game’s legacy is how seamlessly it has branched into other parts of the entertainment industry. This success has been seen with anything the franchise has put its name to, including a well known slot game produced by Light and Wonder. Introduced at the Global Gaming Expo, the “Squid Game: One Lucky Day” slot brings scenes from the series to life, letting players relive games like “Red Light, Green Light” and “Tug of War” in a visually immersive, high-stakes format. The machine features striking animations, thematic music, and symbols drawn straight from the show, offering a uniquely engaging experience for fans of both gaming and gambling.
But what makes Squid Game more than just a television hit is its symbolic power. The creepy robotic doll Young-hee, who polices the infamous first game, has become an international icon. From memes to Halloween costumes, her eerie stare is instantly recognisable. The show’s distinctive design language, from the pink jumpsuits and geometric masks to the surreal playground sets, has permeated pop culture at every level. These visual elements, combined with its biting social commentary, have made Squid Game a uniquely modern classic.
Its creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, has hinted that the third season will be the final instalment, which sets high expectations for how the story will conclude. He’s also noted that the series may expand even further into spin-offs and new forms of media, creating a broader “Squid Game universe.” For fans, the possibilities are exciting and a little terrifying, just like the show itself.
As anticipation builds for the final season, one thing is clear: Squid Game has done more than entertain. It has become a global lens through which we explore themes of desperation, inequality, and the human drive to survive. And in doing so, it has carved out a place in television history that will be hard to match.
