Revisiting The War Games, adventure 50 in the long running science-fiction series, I was reminded of its scale, ambition, and significance in Doctor Who history. Broadcast in April and May 1969, this ten-part serial is a monumental story that closes the Second Doctor’s era, providing high stakes, layered storytelling, and emotional depth. It's not been too long since I watched the BBC Four broadcast of the new abridged colourised version of this adventure, but I wanted to take in the original for this marathon, and the first five episodes of which lay the groundwork for a sprawling narrative filled with intrigue, danger, and poignant character moments.
The Story So Far: Unveiling the Mystery
The TARDIS lands in what appears to be World War I, but it doesn’t take long for the Doctor, Jamie, and Zoe to realize something is amiss. Soldiers from different historical eras—from Roman legionaries to Civil War fighters—are clashing on a mysterious battlefield. The trio is captured and subjected to brainwashing techniques used to maintain the illusion of authenticity for the combatants. As they investigate further, they uncover a sinister plot by the War Lords, an alien race manipulating time and space to create an endless war for their own purposes.
The first five episodes weave a tight narrative, revealing new layers of the conspiracy while balancing moments of action, suspense, and character development. The pacing keeps the viewer engaged as the stakes rise with each revelation.
Patrick Troughton: The Doctor in His Element
Patrick Troughton delivers a masterful performance, showcasing the Doctor’s resourcefulness, compassion, and defiance. His ability to adapt to each situation, whether it’s calming a panicked soldier or outsmarting a War Lord’s officer, is on full display. Troughton’s playful energy and moral conviction make him a captivating lead, especially as the story’s darker themes come to light.
Jamie and Zoe: Steadfast Companions
Jamie McCrimmon (Frazer Hines) brings his characteristic bravery and loyalty to the forefront. His knowledge of battle and willingness to fight for justice make him an invaluable ally to the Doctor.
Zoe Heriot (Wendy Padbury) continues to impress with her intelligence and determination. Her technical expertise and quick thinking are crucial in unraveling the War Lords’ schemes.
Their unwavering support for the Doctor and each other adds emotional weight to the narrative, particularly in moments of danger and uncertainty.
The War Lords and Their Manipulations
The War Lords’ use of brainwashing and advanced technology to manipulate soldiers from different eras creates a chilling commentary on the dehumanizing aspects of war. Their cold, calculating approach to creating a battlefield for their gain underscores their menace and sets the stage for the larger conflict to come.
The presence of the War Chief, another alien with knowledge of time travel, adds an intriguing layer to the story. His dynamic with the Doctor hints at a shared history, deepening the narrative’s complexity.
Production and Atmosphere
The production team’s ability to create convincing settings for multiple historical periods is remarkable. From the trenches of World War I to the Roman battlefield, each setting feels authentic and immersive. The costumes and props add to the realism, while the stark contrast between the historical settings and the alien control rooms highlights the story’s sci-fi elements.
Revisiting in 2025: A Personal Perspective
Watching the first half of The War Games was an exhilarating experience. The story’s scale and ambition are evident in every scene, and the performances from the cast are uniformly excellent. Patrick Troughton’s Doctor remains a joy to watch, while Jamie and Zoe’s courage and camaraderie add depth to the narrative.
The exploration of war and its impact, combined with the sci-fi twist of the War Lords’ manipulations, creates a thought-provoking and engaging story. The first five episodes set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable conclusion.
Final Thoughts on Episodes 1-5
The opening half of The War Games delivers suspense, action, and emotional resonance in equal measure. Its ambitious narrative and strong character work make it a standout story, setting the stage for the dramatic events of the second half.
Next, I’ll be exploring episodes 6 to 10, where the story reaches its climax, and the Doctor faces a momentous turning point in his journey.
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