Real Women of Gaming

There are some pieces of media that change the world around them. One such show was Star Trek. Star Trek is a show that focused on how the world and space around it could be resonated with viewers of all ages. It tackled issues of race, poverty, war and understanding. The show was popular enough to inspire spin off shows throughout the years since it ended. Lower Decks is both a show inspired by but also a love letter to all the versions of Star Trek that came before. 

The original Star Trek was created by Gene Roddenberry and ran from 1966-1969. The story followed a group of explorers in space, documenting their mission to find strange new worlds. Since then 10 more series and 13 different movies have been made. The universe has expanded considerably over the years. One of the latest shows is an animated series that focuses on the lives of those who live and work on the lower decks of the ship instead of the bridge crew. 

At the start of the series we are introduced to the crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos by Ensign Boimler. Boimler has big dreams of one day sitting in the Captain’s chair and commanding a starship. Not all of his coworkers feel similarly though. Ensign Mariner is a rule breaker who follows her heart, even when it goes regulation. Ensign Rutherford is more comfortable inside the walls of the ship, loving every bit of this older model. Ensign Tendi is trying to find her place as a new member of the crew, but she is having a blast doing it. Together these four navigate space travel, social lives and personal growth.

The final season premiered in 2024. The progression of the story was well done. Characters slowly grew, but still stayed true to the group of misfits fans met in season one. The series wrapped up nicely with characters finding their paths in Starfleet. The finale even managed not to be too sad, staying true to the humor established early on in the series. 

Everything about Lower Decks is a love letter to Star Trek itself. The score mimics more serious live action series, while adding cartoony and comedic beats that fit the show. The designs for the characters call back to former friends and foes. The uniforms have been designed to look like other series but also different enough to know that the show is set after most of the others. The writing is wonderful. Bringing that hopeful feel of Star Trek, some very real scenarios and humor together. All of that is then mixed together to give a great show for fans. 

I would highly recommend Lower Decks for fans of Star Trek. I think you could show a new fan but a lot of the jokes mean more if you have watched other series. Also there are cameos sprinkled throughout that are more fun for seasoned viewers. If you are looking for a show with a lot of heart, humor and truth then I would set your viewing to stream with Lower Decks. Enjoy, friends.

ALWAYS KEEP SPARKLING!!!