Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

10 Worst Episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Follow Captain Christopher Pike, Science Officer Spock and Number One in the years before Captain Kirk boarded the U.S.S. Enterprise, as they explore new worlds around the galaxy.

Written by Sophie and last updated on nov 06, 2023.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S2E1

#10 - The Broken Circle (Season 2 - Episode 1)

In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds titled "The Broken Circle," the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise finds themselves facing a difficult decision. When Lt. Noonien-Singh sends a distress call, Spock defies orders and leads the ship into disputed space, risking conflict with the Klingons to help their shipmate.

Fans were left on the edge of their seats with this season opener, as the episode set the bar high for what's to come. Viewers praised the show for its amazing acting and beloved characters, with many calling it one of the best Star Trek episodes ever. The homage to a true legend at the end left fans feeling nostalgic and excited for what's next.

This episode also received acclaim for its introduction of diversity without being heavy-handed. Fans appreciated how the strong female presence seamlessly fit into the storyline and served as a tribute to the late Nichelle Nichols. While some commenters felt threatened by female actors, many applauded the ladies for their excellent performances. Plus, viewers couldn't help but laugh and enjoy Carol Kane's great introduction to the show. With such a strong start, fans are eagerly awaiting the rest of the season to see if it can maintain this level of excellence.

The episode was rated 7.74 from 1631 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S2E8

#9 - Under the Cloak of War (Season 2 - Episode 8)

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In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Under the Cloak of War," Captain Pike and his crew find themselves facing not only the challenges of war but also the revelation of shocking secrets. When a Klingon defector is welcomed aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, tensions rise and the dynamics of relationship abuse come into play. This episode expertly portrays the discomfort of proximity, the gaslighting, and the paralyzing fear that can be associated with abuse. It's a hard-hitting and poignant portrayal that will leave viewers both moved and contemplative.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this episode is the choice to leave the exact events of the climax ambiguous. This deliberate decision forces the audience to grapple with the moral and emotional dimensions of the resolution. The differing opinions among viewers about what happened and what should have happened further highlight the disconnect between Captain Pike's emotional landscape and the experiences of M'Benga. It's a thought-provoking exploration of empathy and understanding.

While the introduction of M'Benga as a super assassin may seem a bit out of left field, the exceptional guest acting from Robert Wisdom and Brendan Jeffers, along with the strong performances from Jess Bush, Anson Mount, and Babs Olusanmokun, make for a captivating viewing experience. The direction by Jeff Byrd is impeccable, and Davy Perez's script efficiently weaves together a compelling mystery. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds continues to impress with its ability to tackle difficult topics while delivering emotionally charged episodes that keep viewers hooked.

The episode was rated 7.69 from 1354 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S1E5

#8 - Spock Amok (Season 1 - Episode 5)

In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Spock Amok," things take a hilarious turn when Spock receives a personal visit right in the middle of his crucial negotiations with an unusual alien species alongside Captain Pike. This episode is a delightful comedy of manners that reminds us why we fell in love with Star Trek in the first place.

Fans are raving about this episode, with many expressing their pride in being Trekkies once again. They appreciate the lighthearted tone and the sci-fi optimism that this episode brings, providing a much-needed break from the constant universe-ending calamities that we often see in other Star Trek shows. "Spock Amok" is a breath of fresh air, showcasing the characters being themselves and going about their lives in the midst of their galactic adventures.

Not only is this episode fun and funny, but it also allows each character to shine and reveal their inner feelings. It captures the essence of the Federation and reminds us of its authentic purpose. Fans particularly praise the chemistry between the characters, with Chapel standing out for her perfect chemistry with everyone she interacts with. The visual effects also play a significant role in creating moments of awe, making this episode a truly energizing experience for viewers.

In summary, "Spock Amok" is an entertaining and refreshing episode that continues to establish Star Trek: Strange New Worlds as the best new Star Trek show out there. It's a reminder of the charm, class, and optimism that the franchise is known for, and it's a must-watch for any fan of the series.

The episode was rated 7.68 from 2410 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S1E3

#7 - Ghosts of Illyria (Season 1 - Episode 3)

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In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Ghosts of Illyria," the U.S.S. Enterprise faces a dangerous contagion that spreads throughout the ship, leaving the entire crew incapacitated, one by one. However, amidst the chaos, Number One, played by the talented Una Chin-Riley, finds herself as the only one unaffected. As the ship's last hope, she must uncover a secret she's been hiding while desperately searching for a cure.

Before the episode even finished airing, it had garnered three reviews with a two-star rating. However, it's worth noting that these ratings may not be entirely genuine, as literal bots seem to be bombarding this fantastic episode for no apparent reason. With comments like "Who is scoring this low?" and "Inject this into my veins," it's clear that many viewers are captivated by the show's exceptional quality.

Fans are raving about the episode, claiming it to be the best version of Star Trek they've seen in a long time. The character development is expertly intertwined with mind-bending sci-fi elements, leaving viewers gasping in awe. However, some viewers did note that the episode slightly overdoes the portrayal of a woman's strength, with one comment playfully stating, "We get it, women are strong too, lol." Despite this minor critique, the general consensus is that "Ghosts of Illyria" is a must-watch for any Star Trek fan.

The episode was rated 7.63 from 2587 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S1E6

#6 - Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach (Season 1 - Episode 6)

In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach," Captain Pike finds himself facing a new threat that brings him face-to-face with his lost love. As he reunites with her, Pike is forced to confront unresolved feelings from his past while also protecting a scientific holy child from a dangerous conspiracy. This episode is filled with suspense and emotion, showcasing the typical Star Trek storytelling that fans love.

One of the highlights of this episode is the guest appearance of Lindy Booth, known for her role as Claudia in Relic Hunter. Fans of the show will enjoy seeing her in this new role. However, some viewers couldn't help but comment on Captain Pike's hairstyle, which some found ridiculous. But despite the hair, the episode is praised for its poignancy and the portrayal of the helplessness and anger felt by the characters.

As with many Star Trek episodes, "Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach" tackles moral dilemmas and raises thought-provoking questions. The suffering of the child and the sacrifice made by others for their own luxury sparks a discussion about the moral high ground. Viewers are left wondering about the plans left by the ancestors who built the machine and why the entire population couldn't be relocated if the planet is habitable without it. Overall, this episode is a must-watch for Star Trek fans, with its hard-hitting and highly watchable storyline. And of course, Captain Pike's impressive hair continues to make a statement.

The episode was rated 7.62 from 2338 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S1E7

#5 - The Serene Squall (Season 1 - Episode 7)

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In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds titled "The Serene Squall," the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise finds themselves on a perilous humanitarian mission. Little do they know, they're about to get caught up in a high-stakes game with the most dangerous space pirate in the quadrant. Suspense and thrills are guaranteed as they navigate this unexpected encounter.

Fans of the show have been raving about the latest installment. Despite a few plot holes, viewers are able to suspend their disbelief and fully enjoy the show for what it is. One fan even jokingly compared the pirate to a character from Guardians of the Galaxy. And let's not forget the comments about Spock's hairlineโ€”some fans are getting quite creative with their observations!

But it's not just the fans who are loving it. The episode showcases the talents of the cast, particularly Ethan Peck's portrayal of Spock. The addition of Jesse James Keitel's character has left fans eagerly anticipating their return. Though not everyone was equally impressed by the pirate Remy, the overall consensus is that the episode was still a fun and delightful adventure.

And just when you thought things couldn't get any better, the episode delivers an unexpected twist at the end. Fans are left wanting more and are eagerly awaiting the next installment of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. With great casting and captivating storylines, this show continues to bring joy and excitement to its dedicated audience.

The episode was rated 7.59 from 2314 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S2E6

#4 - Lost In Translation (Season 2 - Episode 6)

In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Lost In Translation," Uhura finds herself in a perplexing situation. She becomes the sole person who can hear a mysterious sound that no one else seems to notice. However, this innocent noise soon turns into a terrifying ordeal as it triggers hallucinations of unimaginable proportions. Determined to uncover the truth, Uhura enlists an unexpected ally to help her track down the source of this haunting sound. What secrets will they uncover along the way?

Fans of the show can't stop raving about this episode's brilliance. Gooding, who plays Uhura, continues to impress with her remarkable acting skills and confidence beyond her years. And let's not forget that final scene and the electrifying handshake that had fans giddy with excitement. It's moments like these that make us proud to be Trekkies!

But it's not just the main storyline that has viewers captivated. From emotional moments involving Hemmer to surprising character developments, this episode manages to make a lasting impact in a short amount of time. Even casual Trek watchers can appreciate the casual yet thrilling TOS meeting at the end. And the attention to detail, like the inclusion of call-backs and other little extras, truly showcases the creators' love and dedication to the franchise. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds continues to deliver pure gold, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what's to come.

The episode was rated 7.55 from 1417 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S2E4

#3 - Among the Lotus Eaters (Season 2 - Episode 4)

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In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Among the Lotus Eaters," Captain Pike and his landing party embark on a mission to a planet that holds painful memories for him. However, they soon find themselves facing a perplexing situation - they start forgetting everything, including their own identities. As Captain Pike confronts a ghost from his past, the crew must navigate this unsettling amnesia.

Fans of the series were delighted by this captivating episode. After a slight disappointment in the previous week, "Among the Lotus Eaters" brings the show back to its usual excellent form. Viewers praised the season's overall brilliance and couldn't help but express their admiration. Additionally, Captain Pike's clever disguise, which involved simply parting his hair on the opposite side, caught the attention of many.

Moreover, the episode's exploration of the Prime Directive f*ck-ups, although not as deep as those seen in the days of Jean-Luc Picard, provided an intriguing storyline. It was a pleasure to watch and reminded fans of the show's earlier seasons. However, one of the most talked-about aspects of this episode was the beloved character development of Captain Pike's hair. Fans eagerly await its evolution throughout the season, highlighting the attention to detail and excitement the show brings.

The episode was rated 7.51 from 1419 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S1E8

#2 - The Elysian Kingdom (Season 1 - Episode 8)

In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "The Elysian Kingdom," the U.S.S. Enterprise finds itself trapped in a mesmerizing nebula. But this is no ordinary nebula - it is inhabited by an alien consciousness that turns the crew's reality into a captivating fairy tale.

Fans have been raving about this episode, and it's not hard to see why. What could have been a run-of-the-mill "alt universe/role reversal" storyline is elevated by a heartwarming conclusion to an ongoing plot thread. Viewers were expecting laughs, but they were left in tears by the emotionally charged ending.

This episode has struck a chord with fans who have missed this type of storytelling in Star Trek. It not only brings back the essence of classic Trek, but it also ties up loose ends for a beloved character. The episode's connection to the book has left fans hoping for more exploration of the nebula and the doctor's daughter's story in future seasons. So many questions remain unanswered, and the possibilities are endless. Who knows what secrets the nebula holds? One thing is for certain - viewers are eager for more.

The episode was rated 6.83 from 2252 votes.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds - S2E9

#1 - Subspace Rhapsody (Season 2 - Episode 9)

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In the latest episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, titled "Subspace Rhapsody," the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise finds themselves in a unique predicament. An accident with an experimental quantum probability field causes everyone on the ship to break uncontrollably into song. While this may seem like a lighthearted situation, the real danger lies in the expanding field, which threatens to impact other ships, both allies and enemies.

Despite some initial skepticism, this episode has garnered mixed reactions from fans. Some viewers, who may not typically enjoy musical episodes, found themselves pleasantly surprised by the investment in character emotions and the clever callbacks to the original Star Trek series. One fan even proclaimed it as the "best Star Trek ever." On the other hand, there are those who remain divided, acknowledging that this episode might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Regardless of where opinions lie, it's undeniable that "Subspace Rhapsody" takes an exciting chance in storytelling, pushing the boundaries of what Star Trek can offer. With spontaneous bursts into song and even the theme song being sung, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, whether you're a fan of musicals or simply appreciate the joy of a well-executed episode, "Subspace Rhapsody" is definitely worth a watch.

The episode was rated 6.58 from 1442 votes.

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