Netflix’s Squid Game took the world by storm, blending high-stakes survival games with a powerful critique of social inequality. Its intense portrayal of economic hardship and human desperation struck a chord with audiences worldwide. However, before Squid Game dominated pop culture, another series had already explored similar themes with a unique twist Alice in Borderland. This Japanese thriller, adapted from Haro Aso’s manga, offers a fresh take on the survival game concept, delving deeper into psychological tension and intricate world-building.
While both series feature desperate individuals fighting for their lives, Alice in Borderland stands out by expanding the scope of its narrative. It crafts a mysterious and unpredictable world where survival is as much about outsmarting the system as it is about endurance. Despite Squid Game’s well-earned popularity, many viewers argue that Alice in Borderland takes the death game genre to new heights.
Alice in Borderland: The Underrated A Larger, More Mysterious Game
One of the defining differences between the two series lies in their settings and the scale of the games. Squid Game confines its participants to a controlled environment overseen by masked figures, making the power structure clear. Unlike Squid Game, Alice in Borderland traps its characters in an empty Tokyo with mysterious deadly games and no clear mastermind, adding suspense.
The variety of challenges further distinguishes Alice in Borderland. Each game is tied to a suit in a deck of cards, with the difficulty and type of challenge varying accordingly. From physical combat to psychological manipulation, every trial presents a unique threat. This diversity keeps the narrative fresh and unpredictable. In comparison, Squid Game revolves around deadly versions of childhood games—a concept that is striking but relatively straightforward. By pushing beyond simple survival and demanding intellectual and emotional endurance, Alice in Borderland elevates the genre.
More Than Survival: Emotional and Psychological Growth
While both series develop compelling protagonists, Alice in Borderland places a stronger emphasis on personal transformation. The main character, Arisu, begins as an aimless gamer with little ambition. Throughout the series, he evolves into a capable and empathetic leader, shaped by the trials he faces. His growth is gradual and deeply rooted in the narrative, making his journey feel authentic and emotionally impactful.
By contrast, Squid Game’s Gi-hun is largely formed by ethical struggles and the result of his decision-making. His character is fleshed out though richly so, but rather than through character growth through struggle, the center of attention falls on the morality of economic disparities.
The supporting cast in Alice in Borderland also plays a significant role in enriching the story. Shifting alliances, betrayals, and emotional bonds heighten the stakes, making the human connections feel as crucial as the games themselves. While Squid Game delivers a sharp critique of capitalism and social disparity, Alice in Borderland explores how survival impacts individual identity and interpersonal relationships.
