Review

The Walking Dead: A New Frontier Episode 3: Above the Law

There’s nothing like family. Brothers, sisters, overbearing parents – they’re the people that are supposed to have your back. This is of course, a sentiment of pre-apocalyptic society. When the world ends, all bets are off…

Take Javi and his older brother David. After their shocking reunion, outside of the New Frontier’s gates, David carries a wounded Kate and confused Gabe to the hospital. Javi and the rest of the group are put into quarantine. The tension among them is palpable; given recent revelations, the others felt that Javi had some explaining to do. Just how much did he know prior to recent events? And whose side would he be on if things went badly? Moments later, David returns to retrieve Javi. As they walk, David explains how he made it to Richmond before meeting up with the New Frontier. He goes on about how life is better here than in most settlements (they’ve come a long way). Javi of course, sees things differently.

This season’s focus has always been on family. Each episode seems to analyze what it means to be a part of one. David’s position within his group ultimately puts him at odds with his brother. After failing to win over the governing counsel, Javi’s friends (sans David’s wife, son and doctor Eleanor) are sent packing. And while David does offer some aid, he is more or less ok with this brother being on his own. This episode doesn’t just deal with the unique conflicts that can arise between blood relatives though. The fate of Clementine’s “adopted” brother AJ is revealed. A flash back gives way to a heart wrenching moment that I won’t spoil here. Just know that there are some difficult choices in store for gamers.

“Above the Law” is one of the better episodes of this season. I did take issue with the hurried opinions based on minor choices – I don’t understand why characters can constantly flip between hating and loving Javi. I understand someone not agreeing with his (my) choices. But some of the anger seems unwarranted or even wasted given how easily people get over their grievances. Still, most will find themselves on the end of their seats as things progress. With two more episodes left, this latest installment is definitely the precursor to something great. At least, that’s what I’m hoping for!