Minecraft: Story Mode Season 2 – Episode 4 “Beneath Bedrock”

As the penultimate episode of Minecraft: Story Mode Season Two arrives for our perusal, it’s surprising how solid each episode of this second series has been; given how inconsistent the first season was. Telltale’s work isn’t done yet, as episode four, “Below the Bedrock,” must meet the same high standards to properly prepare us for the upcoming finale. Does it live up to expectations, or should the devs hide their heads under the disappointment plinth?

Jesse discovered all sorts of important information while residing at the Sunshine Institute against his will in the previous episode. He discovered that other administrators existed alongside the one currently terrorizing the world and after meeting one of them, Xara, they hatched a plan together to escape the prison. Once out in the wild, the adventure took the gang to a land hidden beneath bedrock, and that’s where this episode picks up. The solution to stopping “The Admin” – known as Romeo to his fellow Admins – can apparently be found somewhere in this ruined world, if Jesse and the other fugitives manage to navigate the dangers he sees.

As far as the story told, it paints a picture of that unseen friendship between Romeo, Xara and, the now deceased third administrator, Fred, very well. None of us were there, but you can still imagine the connection they had from Xara’s recollection of those days, so kudos to the writing. There are also little nuggets of information offered to you following everything the episode has to offer; it could be from a voice recording, a journal entry, or even just the way their old HQ is set up.

What’s quite refreshing is how Jesse, who is still the hero of the play, is able to bring out the best in the other characters around him and allow them to shine. Radar, for example, has grown so much along the way from being a newcomer to becoming a staple in the group, showing the qualities he has. There’s a beautiful moment involving Jesse and Petra in which the latter lets her guard down for a change, proving she has a softer side with insecurities. It’s a good message for the young audience the game is aimed at, to realize that there’s nothing wrong with sharing your worries or fears with those close to you.

As for activities to get things done in Episode Four, the ruins of this underground location aren’t as depopulated as you might think; dangers lurk in the form of scavengers to negotiate and there are always mobs to fight. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, a massive Enderman shows up to wreak havoc. One of the best QTE sections, however, pits you against fiery golems in the ultimate test of your skills. This will allow you to fend off minions, dodge fire, and lure the enemy to their death with a cunning plan.

Other gameplay features include problem solving by matching the correct objects to their rightful position and building a monument or two. It’s nowhere near as exciting as the battle games, but I liked that winning over a rather scared community required proving your worth and winning a quiz. Getting into the subject of the quiz, All About Fred, it encourages you to converse with those in the area and learn as much as you can. It’s really engaging, ensuring the player pays attention to what’s going on.

With the introduction of this new world, one can expect to venture into a few new environments, albeit ones that are mostly dull and rundown due to the narrative. The new characters are more interesting than the environments, even if they only take on minor roles; savage scavengers who bravely stood up to Fred’s followers who have remained loyal and devoted since his death. I also love that an old acquaintance made an appearance, which will no doubt please fans of the first season.

There’s no doubt that episode four, “Below the Bedrock,” is a very good offering with very little downtime, which helps avoid the risk of boredom. Sure, it could use a little more humor, but the writing and voice acting are generally good enough to convey the emotions running through the characters’ minds. The choices still feel a little pointless, while the double dose of equally pointless building activity is unwelcome to me personally. Luckily, the QTEs, especially the boss-like one, are a lot of fun, and the quiz idea is really engaging.

Just like with the rest of the series, I had a great time in Episode 4 of Minecraft: Story Mode Season Two. Bring on the finale – it’s set up to be a cracker!