This was a strong opener to the second series, and brought us up to speed with a HUGE time jump. I am glad to have Suze back, and it was really interesting to learn about her entanglement with the Emperor. The concepts in this episode are great, and I'm surprised they've not been covered before. I thought woah this would suit TV who in a Flux-esque series. Really good start to this series.

Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time!

“DALEK WAR 1: A CONFLICT ON TWO FRONTS”

The Dalek Empire saga continues with Dalek War, a five-part series picking up six years after the events of Series 1. Given the complexity of the previous instalment, Part 1 wisely begins with a much-needed recap before diving straight into the ongoing war between two Dalek factions. One side is led by Kalendorf and his allies, who are now deeply entrenched in the struggle.

Kalendorf takes charge, guided by the enigmatic Mentor computer, while Alby and Mirana hold key positions in the war effort—though Alby is still reeling from the apparent loss of Suz. Much of this opening chapter revolves around strategic discussions and war room manoeuvres, with much of the action unfolding through monitors, computers, and distress signals. However, things shift when one such signal leads to the shocking discovery of Suz, setting the stage for major revelations.

A SLOW START, BUT A PROMISING PREMISE

Dropping us into the conflict years after the last season’s climax, Dalek War demands patience as it establishes new character positions and fills in the narrative gaps. Initially, it struggles to find its footing, bogged down in reorienting the audience. Kalendorf remains a strong presence, Mirana steps up as a commanding fleet captain, and Alby is somewhat sidelined in the grand scheme of things.

However, the series finds its momentum once Suz re-enters the picture. Having been in cryogenic sleep for six years, her reawakening provides a fresh perspective, aligning the audience with her as we uncover the current state of the war. Her return also brings forth the most intriguing plot element—the revelation that the Dalek Emperor hid his consciousness within her, making her a highly valuable asset for both factions.

DALEK VS. DALEK: AN UNEXPECTED TWIST

The war itself presents an intriguing twist: the prime-universe Daleks are now facing off against a superior breed from another universe. These Daleks, created through Project Infinity—an experiment designed to find the ultimate, universe-conquering version of the Daleks—prove to be an unexpected challenge. For once, the Daleks find themselves outmatched, and the concept of them being overwhelmed by their own kind is a fascinating development.

Adding to the complexity, these new Daleks, with their lighter voices and origins tied to the Mentor, come across as more reasonable—or at least, less outwardly monstrous. This leads Kalendorf and his allies to side with them against the prime Daleks, only to discover that their version of "peace" is just as fanatical and oppressive as the regular Daleks’ obsession with conquest.

THE WAR’S HUMAN COST

Suz's return also highlights the personal cost of this war. She is no longer just a soldier or a survivor—she has become a weapon, a living key to the Dalek Emperor’s survival. As both factions seek to control her, it’s clear that her role in this conflict will only grow more significant.

📝VERDICT: 6/10

Dalek War gets off to a slow but intriguing start, re-establishing characters and setting the stage for a complex conflict. The idea of a Dalek-on-Dalek war is fresh, and the introduction of the Mentor’s Daleks adds an unexpected layer to the usual extermination-fuelled chaos. While the story initially struggles with pacing, it picks up once Suz returns and the stakes become clearer. With political manoeuvring, shifting alliances, and the looming threat of the Dalek Emperor’s hidden consciousness, this is a war with far more than just survival at stake.

Wow, I'm the first reviewer of this story! This review will be kinda experimental cause I will write my thoughts on the story while listening to it. So it's more like an initial reaction than a review

The episode's beginning feels like a nice way to re-introduce listeners to the overall plot. Not exactly fresh start but a solid entry point nevertheless. Also probably one of the most grand Daleks' plans

The Mentor is an interesting new character. Really like her robotic yet human-like voice. Feels soothing in a way

While listening to these Dalek stories I found out I really like all the clicking 'sci-fi' sounds lol

Decided to randomly browse TARDIS.Guide and realized Nicholas Briggs wrote literally every story in this spin-off. Wow. That's dedication I guess

Gareth Thomas as Kalendorf is certainly a highlight of the whole series from an acting standpoint

Yes, hallucinations (or not)! Doubts about the reality of story's events! Love this stuff

Btw I will correct myself from earlier and say that The Mentor is a true highlight of this episode in particular

Again, the themes of a story (especially this thin line between something and something... I will need to edit the review because I forgot what I wanted to write)

LOVE the twist (not exactly huge but it adds a curious element to Susan) near the end. Feels creepy in a way that every Dalek story should be imo

The music is so 2000s coded I really appreciate it

Wow a trailer in the end

In conclusion I can say that this is a pretty solid episode. I'm excited for next chapters of the story but I'll definently have at lest a week-long break before listening to them because I don't want to go mad from hearing so many Dalek voices. Also writing this review simultaneously with listening to it was an interesting experience maybe I'll try it again

Well, I guess that's everything I was going to say. Really hope I didn't forget to do something that I intended to do...

P.S. Sorry for a non-funny 'joke' near the end I just couldn't help myself