Three episodes in, and I’m starting to see why Strange New Worlds has so much buzz among both longtime Trekkies and new fans. What really strikes me is how this show manages to feel modern while paying tribute to what made the franchise special from the beginning. Episode 3 deepens that feeling, offering a story that could easily stand alongside the classics but with today’s cinematic storytelling polish.
Episode 3: “Ghosts of Illyria”
This episode takes a darker, more suspenseful turn. The Enterprise visits a planet once home to the Illyrians, a species known for their genetic modifications—something forbidden by Starfleet. While investigating abandoned ruins, the crew accidentally unleashes a strange contagion that spreads rapidly through the ship.
The illness manifests as an overwhelming compulsion to seek out light, pushing the crew into dangerous, uncontrollable behaviors. It’s creepy, tense, and plays out almost like a survival thriller.
The crisis brings out the best (and sometimes worst) in the crew, but it also allows key characters to shine. La’an Noonien-Singh, the Enterprise’s security chief, steps into focus as someone grappling with her family’s infamous history. We also learn more about Number One (Una Chin-Riley), whose secret connection to the Illyrians comes to light in an emotional reveal. She’s forced to confront her identity while saving the crew, adding a deeply personal layer to the story.
Meanwhile, Captain Pike and Spock, separated from the ship during the outbreak, explore the ruins and stumble across the haunting history of the Illyrians. Their scenes together highlight the series’ ability to balance mystery, science fiction worldbuilding, and strong character development.
By the end, the crisis is contained, but the consequences linger—especially for Una, who now faces the question of how much she can truly reveal about herself in a world that forbids genetic modification.
Favorite Moments
- The eerie atmosphere – The shipboard illness gave the whole episode a thriller edge, different but refreshing for Trek.
- Una’s reveal – Her personal connection to the Illyrians was unexpected and emotional, showing her strength and vulnerability in equal measure.
- La’an’s struggles – Her family’s legacy as descendants of Khan adds layers of tension to her character.
- Pike and Spock’s teamwork – Watching the captain and his science officer explore the ruins together added a classic Trek adventure feel.
My Reaction
This episode really clicked for me because it leaned into suspense while still grounding everything in the values and questions that make Star Trek stand out. It reminded me of the kinds of stories I enjoyed back in The Next Generation, only now presented with a sleek, modern touch.
I’m really loving the tribute to the First Generation (okay—The Next Generation, but you know what I mean!) in this new format. It feels respectful to the roots of Trek while giving us fresh perspectives. Seeing stories that take place before the era I first encountered makes me feel like I’m filling in gaps in the timeline—and that’s exciting.
Captain Pike continues to be one of my favorite parts of the show. He’s calm under pressure, thoughtful in his approach, and yet never loses sight of his humanity. This combination of classic leadership and modern characterization makes him one of the most compelling captains I’ve seen so far.
Three episodes in, and I’m officially hooked. If the series keeps this balance of mystery, character-driven storytelling, and moral complexity, I can see why fans are calling Strange New Worlds one of the best Star Trek entries in years.
