On the season three premiere of Star Trek: Lower Decks, Captain Freeman is able to clear her name. The failed rescue attempt by her daughter and the other ensigns causes her to make a bold move. She appoints First Officer Ransom as Mariner’s supervisor hoping that the lack of nepotism will finally bring her in line and reduce any of her insubordination.
“The Least Dangerous Game” picks up with this new normal. Ransom and Mariner are sent to repair an orbital lift on a planet. He uses it as an opportunity to test Mariner and see how disciplined she really is rather than have Rutherford and Lieutenant Commander Billups, the engineers, handle the job.
They have an interesting dynamic because you can see Mariner resist every urge to circumvent her commanding officer. Maybe she wants to be a good ensign or she realizes she’s on a shorter leash. Regardless, it’s funny to see the lengths she goes to even after ignoring Ransom. Though, he doesn’t make things easier with his lack of technical knowledge. The ending of the episode of Lower Decks is very fitting with him using his muscles to save the day. Despite his deficient book smarts, he can still take control of a situation.
The title refers to Boimler’s new approach to becoming a captain. After hearing that Vendome has been promoted to the position, Brad opens up and is willing to accept any proposal that comes his way. It takes him into some new experiences especially as the prey for a member of the newly introduced Star Trek species, Kromsapiods. As you can expect, there is plenty of amusing high-pitched screams and running in terror, but he eventually gathers himself and musters the courage to confront his fear.
It is also a delight when Star Trek: Lower Decks shows the geeky side of their ensigns. In their spare time, the crew enjoy playing a Klingon Dungeons & Dragons equivalent. The nice little Easter egg is that a virtual Martok serves as the host and DM providing even more ferocity to the game.
“The Least Dangerous Game” is an enjoyable watch filled with the ridiculous exploits you’ve grown accustomed to from the series.
New episodes of Star Trek: Lower Decks are released Thursdays on Paramount+.
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