Netflix's global phenomenon Squid Game has returned with its highly anticipated third and final season, but the series finale has sparked significant controversy among fans and critics. The latest installment, which premiered on June 27, 2025, has faced mounting criticism over several technical and narrative choices that have left viewers divided.

CGI Baby Controversy Dominates Social Media

The most prominent criticism centers around the use of a CGI baby in crucial scenes featuring Player 222, Jun-hee (Jo Yu-ri). Fans have been forced to Google whether the baby is real due to its "extremely bad" digital rendering, with many comparing the effect to the infamous CGI baby Renesmee from the Twilight saga.

The backlash has sparked broader discussions about streaming budgets and where productions choose to invest, with some fans worrying the show is shifting from raw authenticity to overly polished spectacle. Social media users have criticized not only the digital baby but also poorly rendered dogs, blood effects, and background elements throughout the season.

Unrealistic Pregnancy Storyline Under Fire

Beyond the technical issues, creators have been criticized for showcasing an unrealistic pregnancy scene involving Jun-hee, who was heavily pregnant in Season 3. The character, introduced in Season 2 as Lee Myung-gi's girlfriend (Player 333), becomes central to several controversial plot points that fans have deemed implausible.

The pregnancy storyline has drawn particular ire from viewers who felt the medical aspects were poorly researched and executed, adding to the growing list of grievances against the season's production quality.

Mixed Critical Reception Despite Strong Performances

While facing technical criticism, Season 3 has received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics. Critics say the hit series' final chapter is a step up from season 2, offering a tense, shocking conclusion to what many consider one of Netflix's greatest shows.

However, the reaction from viewers to the ending has been predominantly negative, with many fans expressing disappointment on social media platforms. The season's conclusion has left audiences feeling divided about the series' legacy.

Production Quality Concerns Overshadow Narrative

Season 3 shows Gi-hun broken by his failed attempt to stop the game, continuing the series' theme of heroic goals being subverted by failure. Despite strong character development and intense narrative moments, technical shortcomings have overshadowed the storytelling achievements.

The series, which became a global cultural phenomenon with its first season, now faces questions about whether the pressure to deliver a satisfying conclusion may have compromised production standards. Industry observers note that the criticism reflects broader concerns about streaming platforms' approach to flagship content production.

Fan Reactions Split the Community

The Squid Game fanbase remains divided, with some defending the creative choices while others express frustration with what they perceive as declining quality standards. The controversy highlights the challenges faced by creators when concluding beloved series under intense scrutiny and high expectations.

As the dust settles on the final season, the debate continues about whether technical execution issues will overshadow the series' cultural impact and storytelling achievements. The backlash serves as a reminder of how production decisions can significantly influence audience reception, even for globally successful franchises.

Despite the controversy, Squid Game Season 3 remains one of Netflix's most-watched releases, proving that audience interest persists even amid criticism. The series' conclusion marks the end of a cultural phenomenon that redefined global streaming content and sparked conversations about socioeconomic inequality worldwide.