by UnintelGen (?) » Thu Apr 14, 2016 8:57 pm
OK, this is looking pretty positive so far. (MAN, I keep meaning to post more... but.. Eh.)
Obviously this episode could go south very quickly, mind you, but I'm hopeful. I guess, in a similar manner to why I like Magic Duel is why I could potentially really like this episode. I'm not much to lament on the 'disappointments' of the show. Things happen, this or that isn't explained, too fast, etc.- But Dragon Quest is possibly the only episode that I consider to be a true disappointment. Not that I hate the episode or anything. But you had this great setup, the best setup. You established earlier in the season (SoME) that ponies don't know much about dragons. You have Spike, who is a notable anomaly. And you now have an episode where Spike wants to learn more about dragons. You've made me (The audience) curious, whereas Spike otherwise could've just been left alone and not expanded. And everyone would not of cared in the slightest. But... Then Dragon Quest quits about a third in and settles for an obvious and hacky teenage rebellion plot that is completely divorced from 'learning' about dragons. The hell, show? This was your shot, your opportunity.
Spike's rejection of his genetic culture at the end of DQ could've been a hugely inspiring moment. Now it's just an awkward and weird ending to a lackluster episode that may have some possible unfortunate implications.
("Well, one bad experience is enough to have me reject my heritage and genetic culture wholesale! Screw my possible parents out there somewhere, I'm just a pony now! Neeeeigh!" *dragon whinny*)
So now... They've got a do over. Similar premise and character setup... But now you're showing culture. Not especially distinct culture, but unique culture to dragons nonetheless. Even if the episode hits the repetitive notes of challenge #1, challenge #2, Mane 6 held hostage to raise stakes, challenge #3- You've still got a chance to learn about dragons- And explore that concept.