This was a very cozy sort of listen, which is definitely not what I expected going into an alternate universe Doctor Who story. I think it was a brilliant choice for the first story in this range since it stands alone nicely and is easily accessible, especially if you are familiar with even the most basic concepts of Doctor Who. It is almost too simple in that it does feel like a relatively underwhelming experience, but I still really enjoyed the performances, especially of Carole Ann Ford and Geoffery Bayldon, who both leave this story with a strong impression.

It's a fun idea, too, exploring a Doctor falling into a much more traditional Gallifreyan life. I like the idea but having him remembering and fretting over the original Doctor's story is less compelling than him being involved in Gallifreyan politics or military instead, for example. I have a feeling the rest of the series will explore that, so it's understandable, but Auld Mortality only goes so far because of it. Still absolutely worth the listen, though.