The Challenge’ Is Getting a Third Season Because Capitalism Is Inevitable

The fictional Squid Game as we know it is over—for now, at least—but Netflix would like you to remember that it has an offshoot reality competition that’s still very much active. On the heels of announcing that Squid Game: The Challenge season two will drop November 4, the streamer has also let it be known it’s now accepting applications for season three.

The first season of Squid Game: The Challenge weathered its share of controversy; not only did its very existence fly in the face of the fictional series’ anti-capitalist themes, but some participants emerged with complaints about harsh and injury-prone working conditions.

However, it proved to be a smash hit for the streamer, riding the coattails of Hwang Dong-hyuk’s blockbuster sensation to ratings glory. Naturally, it was renewed, because even if Hwang can’t be lured back for more, Netflix can keep milking Squid Game‘s cultural relevance with this spin-off of its own creation.

Unlike the original series, players don’t actually die if they fail in The Challenge—our real-life dystopia isn’t quite there… yet—though the games are modeled after what’s seen in the show. The teaser for season two suggests certain inspiration from Squid Game season two, particularly the harrowing six-legged race.

The top prize in The Challenge is $4.56 million, which is quite a bit less than the fictional prize (456 billion won, as seen in the original series, is worth around $38 million). Still, that ain’t chump change; a press release from Netflix notes that 81,000 people applied ahead of season one, with 456 (obviously) making the final cut. To learn how to toss your hat in for season three, check out the casting page here.

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