Engadget reviews Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season four as uneven but charming

Engadget has published a preview and review of the fourth season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, describing the series as uneven in tone and quality but ultimately charming. The publication notes that while the show has historically been characterised by an erratic mix of genres, the latest season continues to take creative risks, including a confirmed collaboration with Jim Henson Studios for a puppet episode.

The review highlights a significant increase in parody-style episodes compared to standard instalments, alongside heavy gore that marks a departure from the family-friendly content typical of pre-Alex Kurtzman era Trek series. The second episode features significant body horror described as more intense than the eye-gouging scenes in the third season, leading the reviewer to question the appropriateness of such hard-edged content for a franchise often viewed as suitable for children.

Despite the criticism regarding the show’s inconsistent execution and the frequent appearance of Paul Wesley as Jim Kirk, the sixth episode is praised as a standout thriller. The reviewer describes it as potentially one of the best episodes in the franchise’s six-decade history, noting a specific reference to the comedy series Burnistoun attributed to writer Martin Quinn.

The article suggests that the series may be nearing its conclusion, implying it might not return for several years. This inference is drawn from the reviewer’s assessment of the season’s flaws and the overall trajectory of the show, although no official confirmation has been provided by Paramount or the production team regarding the series' future.

While the review is based on a preview and the author has not seen the final episodes, the overall sentiment remains that the series retains its charm despite its flaws. The publication concludes that fans should enjoy the current season, as it may be some time before audiences return to this part of the Star Trek universe.