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"Omega: A Tale of Time Lords and Betrayal”

The Fifth Doctor encounters the legendary Omega once more in this audio drama, the first in a trilogy of villain-centric stories. Set against the backdrop of a peculiar historical tour, the narrative explores how fictional reenactments blur into reality as Omega manipulates events to facilitate his return. His earlier, ambitious scientist self takes centre stage, offering fresh insights into his tragic fall from grace.

The plot’s strength lies in its character dynamics. The relationship between Omega and the Doctor is richly layered, with parallels drawn between their shared Time Lord heritage and contrasting moral choices. This nuanced exploration of the Doctor’s darker tendencies is rare for pre-Time War incarnations, making it a standout element.

Professor Ertikus, a delightful addition to the cast, provides both comic relief and intellectual sparring for the Doctor. His enthusiasm for uncovering Omega’s truth mirrors the eagerness of my favourite, Chronotis from Shada, and adds a touch of whimsy to the story. His untimely demise at Omega’s hands in Part 3 is a poignant moment, further raising the stakes.

Ian Collier reprises his role as Omega from Arc of Infinity, delivering a performance brimming with menace and pathos. While he doesn’t match Stephen Thorne’s operatic intensity, Collier’s portrayal brings a quieter, more introspective menace to the character, making his desperation and manipulation deeply compelling.

The story shines brightest in its final act, where a clever twist reveals Omega’s use of the Doctor’s biological imprint to frame him for murders. This revelation reframes the entire narrative, injecting tension and urgency as the real Doctor only steps into the spotlight in Part 4. However, the climactic stretch, though impactful, feels overly drawn out at 40 minutes.

Omega’s supposed marriage to Sentia offers a darkly humorous subplot, though its absurdity recalls the twisted dynamic of the Master and Lucy Saxon in The Sound of Drums/Last of the Time Lords. The closing moments, featuring an agent of the Celestial Preservation Agency, add a surreal but intriguing coda, hinting at the Doctor’s enduring legacy among the Time Lords.

📝Verdict: 7.69/10

Big Finish celebrates 40 years of Doctor Who with a tale of twisted history, dark reflections, and a renegade Time Lord's desperate bid for freedom.

Omega is a slow-burn exploration of the titular villain’s psyche, balanced by strong character interactions and a late-game twist that revitalises the plot. While the pacing sags in parts, its introspective tone and compelling performances make it a worthy addition to Big Finish’s celebratory releases. 

Random Observations:

• It's weird how the Doctor claims he is pushing 900 years of age here, which would mean he’s barely aged between his fifth and his ninth incarnations.