Following a hugely successful debut series, the beloved Critical Role team are back and bigger than ever with the adaption of arc three of their hit Dungeons and Dragons livestream. Consisting of 46 episodes out of the 115 episode run, The Chroma Conclave Arc is undoubtedly the longest arc in the first campaign, and generally considered a fan favourite. But can lightning strike twice when it comes to capturing the chaotic and emotional moments of the incredibly popular campaign for the Prime Video animated show?
Season Two picks up events right where the first left off, as a group of powerful dragons (calling themselves the Chroma Conclave) wreak chaos and destruction upon the capital city of Emon. In order to try and stop the dragons from toppling the entire realm, Vox Machina (consisting of Pike (Ashley Johnson), Grog (Travis Willingham), Vex’ahlia (Laura Bailey) and her twin brother, Vax’ildan (Liam O’Brien); Keyelth (Marisha Ray), Scanlan (Sam Riegel) and Percy (Taliesin Jaffe)) embark on a quest to collect a number of magical artefacts known as Vestiges of Divergence. Used together, the ancient items might just be powerful enough to bring down the beasts.
After a satisfying first season rooted in Whitestone, introducing the rag tag adventurers and exploring Percy De Rolo’s backstory with the Briarwoods, season 2 finally sees the gang venturing on an epic quest beyond the confines of the city walls. With increased stakes, magical artefacts/items to collect, exciting new locations and even more dangerous villains to encounter, this outing certainly feels much more in line with a classical Dungeons and Dragons campaign.
While the gang explore the wider world of Exandria tracking down various Vestiges of Divergence, much of the narrative is also devoted to character development and further fleshing out their own stories. The majority of the gang finally get their own moments to shine, with episodes devoted to further their arcs or delve into flashbacks illuminating their (often tragic) backstories, wonderfully illustrating the events which have helped shaped these characters to become who they are today. Whether that’s Keyleth’s growing confidence in her own abilities, a spotlight on the twins’ strained relationship with their father, or how Grog touchingly came to know his bestie, Pike. There’s definitely a lot to love!
Each actor pours so much heart and soul into their vocal performances, with a number of emotional moments and reveals afforded to each individual, along with a greater balance between the more serious moments and the typically crude humour of Scanlan and co. There’s so many hilarious, heartfelt and powerful moments shared throughout this wonderful central dynamic – which is when the show truly comes alive. One drawback however, is the tendency to split the party up in the attempt to cover more group and speed up finding the Divergence items, with a handful of episodes feeling a lot like side missions detracting from the overarching storyline. Fans of the show will also be treated to several adaptations of fan-favourite moments of the campaign, including the failed 19 roll and discussions over the proper way to pronounce the name Purvan.
The animation from Titmouse once again wonderfully brings this magical fantasy world to life – and with more battles, creatures and realms to feature – there’s plenty for animation fans to enjoy. Each gigantic dragon featured in the Chroma Conclave has their own unique character design and impressive flourishes (especially that acid breath!), along with the hugely colourful new environments and realms, with the long awaited delve into the Fey Realm proving a real highlight. As with the addition of even more menacing villains, the adult content is dialled up to 11, with Invincible levels of gore and a hilarious giant purple bottom courtesy of Scalan.
Speaking of the bard, there’s even more original songs from Sam Riegel featured throughout the soundtrack, including a hilarious country style duet with Ashley Johnson, which will undoubtedly become a fan favourite!
Verdict
Bigger, bloodier and with even greater stakes, The Legend of Vox Machina season 2 is a hugely entertaining and thrilling slice of epic animated fantasy. The second series wonderfully builds upon the foundations laid in the first outing, breathing more life into this roster of hugely endearing characters, while further exploring the expansive magical world of Exandria in a truly exciting adventure. Season three when?
The Legend of Vox Machina Season 2 premieres January 20 on Prime Video.
