Major Rule Change for Squid Game 2: Stop the Game Between Rounds

Jenny Lee December 15, 2024 | 21:15

In Season 2, players will have more agency thanks to a new rule in Squid Game. This twist, according to the showrunner, is also a social critique of democracy and the majority vote.

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Squid Game captured the world’s attention with its brutal challenges, deep social commentary, and jaw-dropping twists. Now, with Season 2 set to debut on December 26, 2024, a major rule change promises to shake up the game and add an even more intense layer of strategy and morality to the competition. This time, the contestants will have more control over their fates—on paper, at least. But as creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has hinted, this newfound agency may lead to more chaos rather than resolution.

Squid Game Creator Reveals 1 Major Rule Change for Season 2

The New Rule: Players Can Vote to Stop the Game Between Rounds

One of the most significant twists in Squid Game Season 2 is the introduction of a rule allowing players to vote to stop the game after each round. This decision mirrors the pivotal scene in Season 1, where participants voted to end the games after the bloodbath of "Red Light, Green Light." While the majority voted to cancel the competition and go home, many later returned voluntarily, driven by desperation and the allure of the massive cash prize.

This new voting mechanism is designed to give participants more control over their outcomes. Hwang Dong-hyuk, the showrunner, explained that this rule is a commentary on democracy, highlighting the power of majority rule and its potential for both positive and negative consequences. According to Hwang, the rule poses a critical question: “Is the majority always right?”

A Reflection of Modern Society

Hwang Dong-hyuk revealed that real-world events inspired the rule change in Squid Game Season 2. The creator drew parallels between the dynamics of the deadly game and societal conflicts observed globally, including generational divides, political polarization, and the increasing hostility between opposing sides.

“We live in a democratic society, and everyone has their own right to vote, but the dominant side rules,” Hwang said. “I wanted to tell a story about how the choices we make create divisions among us and to ask whether there’s a way to overcome these divides.”

In South Korea, Hwang pointed out, conflicts between the younger and older generations have grown particularly stark. This tension reflects a broader global trend of societal fragmentation, where debate often gives way to hostility, and compromise seems impossible.

How the New Rule Changes the Game

The new rule fundamentally alters the power dynamics of the Squid Game. Previously, participants had little say in their fates once the games began. Now, players will have the option to opt out after every round—if the majority agrees. However, this newfound agency is not necessarily a good thing. Here’s why:

Conflict Among Players

The ability to vote creates divisions among players who might have differing motivations. While some may want to stop the game after witnessing the horrific deaths of others, others might be too desperate for the prize money to walk away. This clash of perspectives will undoubtedly lead to tension and alliances breaking down.
Manipulation and Strategy

Characters like Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae) could leverage this rule to their advantage. The trailer hints that Gi-hun will appeal to reason, persuading players to vote strategically based on the rising death toll and their increasing chances of survival. However, this tactic might backfire if players see through his motives.
Psychological Pressure

The rule adds another layer of psychological warfare. Contestants who wish to continue may coerce or manipulate others into voting with them, creating a microcosm of societal struggles where the louder voices—or the most cunning—prevail.
A Double-Edged Sword

While the rule may provide a glimmer of hope for escape, it could also lead to devastating consequences. As Hwang noted, "The dominant side rules," meaning the majority’s decision could easily result in a minority being forced into a deadly game they no longer wish to play.

What This Means for Seong Gi-hun

For Gi-hun, the new rule could be a game-changer. After winning the games in Season 1 and learning the horrifying truth about its organizers, Gi-hun is determined to put an end to the competition once and for all. The ability to sway votes might allow him to influence the outcome of the games—or even stop them entirely.

However, the rule is a double-edged sword for Gi-hun as well. The more he tries to reason with others, the more resistance he might face from contestants who are too blinded by greed or desperation to listen. Lee Byung-hun, who plays the Front Man, hinted at this dynamic, stating that his character’s goal is to "shatter Gi-hun’s conviction."

Broader Implications: A Social Commentary

Hwang Dong-hyuk has made it clear that the new rule is more than just a plot twist—it’s a reflection of real-world issues. By introducing the voting mechanism, Hwang aims to explore the complexities of democracy and decision-making in a polarized society.

Majority Rule vs. Minority Rights

The new rule underscores the tension between majority rule and the rights of individuals. If a majority votes to continue, what happens to those who want out? This dilemma mirrors real-world debates about governance and representation.
Conflict and Division

Hwang described the new games as a story about “taking sides.” The rule change forces players to align with a majority, deepening divisions and exposing the fragility of alliances. This theme resonates with the growing polarization seen in politics and culture worldwide.
The Cost of Compromise

While democracy is often seen as a tool for fairness, Squid Game Season 2 questions whether it can truly work in extreme situations. Can a group of desperate individuals, each with their own motivations, ever find common ground?

Will the Rule Change Stop the Games?

The new rule raises the possibility that players could unanimously vote to end the games permanently. However, this outcome seems unlikely, given the desperate circumstances of most contestants. Additionally, law enforcement or outside intervention could play a role, as hinted at in teasers.

That said, the stakes are higher than ever. Season 2 may reach a climactic final round like Season 1, or Gi-hun might succeed in finding a way to stop the games before they escalate further. Hwang Dong-hyuk has also confirmed that Season 3 will wrap up the entire story, suggesting that the events of Season 2 will set the stage for a final showdown between Gi-hun and the Front Man.

Looking Ahead: Squid Game Season 3

As fans eagerly await the new season, one thing is certain: Squid Game Season 2 is just the beginning of a larger arc. Creator Hwang has revealed that Season 3, slated for release in 2025, will continue the battle between Gi-hun and the Front Man, ultimately concluding the series.

“The fierce clash between [Gi-hun and the Front Man’s] two worlds will continue into the series finale,” Hwang teased.

Conclusion: A Game-Changing Twist

The introduction of the voting rule in Squid Game Season 2 adds a fascinating new layer to the deadly tournament. By giving players the power to decide their fate, the series not only increases the stakes but also delivers a thought-provoking commentary on democracy, conflict, and the nature of decision-making in a divided world.

As December 26 approaches, fans can look forward to another gripping season filled with moral dilemmas, intense conflict, and shocking twists. The question remains: Will the new rule bring the contestants closer to freedom, or will it tear them apart even further? Whatever the outcome, Squid Game Season 2 is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

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