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“Zagreus: A Labyrinth of Lore and Legacy”

Zagreus is nothing short of a love letter to 40 years of Doctor Who. Packed with past Doctors, companions, and countless nods to the show’s vast mythology, it feels like a celebratory epic, albeit one that is unapologetically complex and occasionally overwhelming.

As the climax of a narrative arc seeded throughout the Main Range, Zagreus delves into the dark corners of Gallifreyan nursery rhymes, peeling back layers of Time Lord lore. It introduces concepts like the Divergence and provides a fresh exploration of Rassilon’s legacy, making it a pivotal entry in the Doctor Who canon.

With a runtime that spans over three hours, the story is divided into three distinct parts. Each segment embraces a different tone, blending comedy, horror, and mind-bending science fiction into a surreal tapestry of storytelling.

A Journey Through Madness

Part 1 plunges us into chaos, alternating between the Doctor, now split into the malevolent Zagreus persona, and Charley, who teams up with a holographic Brigadier. The fragmented narrative mirrors the disorientation of its protagonists, and while it can be challenging to follow, the sheer creativity keeps it engaging.

Part 2 shifts the focus to Gallifrey, introducing the Great Mother, Cassandra, and Tepesh—characters brought to life by familiar voices in unfamiliar roles. Charley finds herself embodying Rassilon, while the Doctor battles with surreal threats in the TARDIS, including animatronic animal soldiers and the Jabberwock. This act is a kaleidoscope of bizarre imagery and inventive storytelling, though its purpose often feels elusive.

By Part 3, the story coalesces into something more recognisable. Set in the Death Zone, it unites the alternate Doctors and companions for a climactic showdown against Rassilon and his monstrous forces. The banter between the Doctors is a highlight, as is the interplay between Charley, Leela, and Romana, who work tirelessly to hold everything together.

Performances That Shine

Paul McGann delivers one of his finest performances for Big Finish, portraying Zagreus with a chilling intensity. His portrayal of a fractured, desperate Doctor is haunting and mesmerising, grounding the story amid its surreal chaos.

India Fisher’s Charley is the emotional anchor, carrying much of the narrative with charm, wit, and vulnerability. Her interactions with McGann bring depth to their strained relationship, culminating in a heartbreaking twist as the Doctor casts her out, only for her to defiantly return.

The inclusion of past Doctors and companions in new roles is a double-edged sword—fascinating but occasionally disorienting. Colin Baker delights as the sinister Tepesh, while Sylvester McCoy channels a Walt Disney-esque energy as Walton Winkle. Nicholas Courtney stands out as a holographic Brigadier and the voice of Zagreus, delivering one of his most dynamic performances.

A Feast for Fans

The sheer density of Zagreus makes it a challenging listen, particularly for casual fans. With nearly every character portrayed by a Doctor or companion actor, there’s a sense of playful indulgence that rewards long-time listeners but risks alienating newcomers.

The narrative’s labyrinthine structure and frequent tonal shifts can be exhausting, but its ambition and creativity are undeniable. The final act brings much-needed clarity, delivering a traditional Doctor Who adventure infused with the story’s characteristic grandeur and eccentricity.

A Bittersweet Legacy

Zagreus is not just a celebration of the show’s past; it’s also a harbinger of its future. The introduction of the Divergence sets the stage for The Divergent Universe arc, ensuring that this story’s impact extends far beyond its runtime.

However, the emotional crux lies in the Doctor’s painful decision to push Charley away, a moment that adds an emotional resonance to the sprawling narrative.

The Verdict: A Beautiful Mess

Zagreus is as divisive as it is ambitious. It’s a bold, bizarre, and often baffling adventure that embraces the rich history of Doctor Who while paving the way for new directions.

Overflowing with performances from beloved actors, surreal storytelling, and deep lore, it’s a feast for dedicated fans and an endurance test for casual listeners. Love it or loathe it, Zagreus is an unforgettable chapter in Doctor Who history.

📝88/100

Random Observations:

• This is the longest Main Range release and the second longest Big Finish story, after Dominion, at just shy of four hours.
• Sadly, this is also the only Main Range release to feature Elisabeth Sladen and John Leeson as K9. It’s also the Big Finish debut for Louise Jameson as Leela.