Sadly the first episode I didn't love, but thankfully I still liked it. I thought the podcast format was really cool - even if, as some folks said, the switch to the normal format by the end was a bit clunky. The premise and the execution behind the tree and its mysteries were really cool and interesting, and as always all the performances were grand.

So what's my issue?

Massive spoilers for the entire climax: I think that the Phoenix reveal doesn't really land on any level. Firstly, I already was vaguely suspicious of her from the jump when we suddenly got big Clyde changes, though I hoped we'd stick with the changes and it'd be fine. Then when episode 2 was heavily pushing Clani.... The suspicions got stronger. I knew Phoenix couldn't and wouldn't last. So I wasn't surprised at all she was an alien villain.

Secondly, I just don't really care much? Other than obviously feeling really bad for Clyde - which I do - but the reveal didn't spark much emotionally from me because Phoenix never got enough set up as a character. I needed more emotional attachment to her for the twist to land personally.

It's a shame that this climax really drags the rest of an otherwise really good story down.

Still, had a good time nonetheless!