Okay, Mordecai not wanting to be their manager… I have a theory. Either he had a manager himself and something bad happened in the later levels that he isn't telling them about, or—and this feels more likely—he knows the crawlers are probably going to die. That's the game. He doesn't want to get close to them or form genuine friendships when he knows it could all just end in heartache.
The Primal Race Theory 👀
Okay, the Primal race…
It’s mysterious, unclear, and currently feels just a little too underwhelming not to become a huge deal later.
Yes, Carl might have to grind to unlock the real benefits, but if anyone can do that, it’s him.
I’m already suspicious that this choice is going to matter much more than it currently seems to. Especially with the little bit of history we got.
They were the founders.
Yeah… that is absolutely setting something up for payoff later.
I’m watching this one closely.
I hope we can send items as gifts or for trade through messages. Maybe the granny Carl saved might share her legendary loot.
23 October 2026 · Bea theory
I'm not convinced Bea is dead, you know… I agree with Carl: if she were alive, surely they'd have dragged her onto a TV show just to mess with them. But still… what if she's somewhere up on the surface?
BETWEEN THE PAGES / FINAL VERDICT
Another glorious five stars.
★★★★★ 5/5
Another glorious five stars. Book 2 builds on everything I loved about the first: Donut's growth, Mongo's chaotic charm, Carl's brains and a much bigger, deeply messed-up world beyond the dungeon. I laughed, I worried, and I was never bored.
Read My Full Review ↓Hide Full Review ↑
Another glorious five stars. Very rarely does a second book live up to the first, but *Carl's Doomsday Scenario* absolutely does.
I think that's partly down to the story Matt Dinniman has built, but also to how brilliantly the genre lends itself to this kind of progression. By Book 2, we already understand the foundations of the game. Achievements, loot boxes, XP, levelling up, stats, bosses. We know how things generally work, and we've even started anticipating the rewards characters might receive.
Of course, each level brings its own challenges, and Borant can still throw a spanner in the works. But the groundwork has been laid. We don't need to spend half the book learning the rules all over again. Instead, we can build on what we already know, explore more of the world and watch the characters develop. It makes reading Books 1 and 2 back to back feel like one enormous, brilliantly connected story.
Now, the things I loved. And there were plenty.
First, Donut. Always Donut. I love that cat more than I probably should. Her sassy comebacks only get better, but what's really impressed me is the depth she's developing. Carl compares her growth to that of a child, and honestly, I could see it happening without him pointing it out. She's still her wonderfully chaotic self, but she's learning, changing and showing a side of herself we didn't see as clearly in Book 1. Personally, I think becoming a mother has done wonders for her. 😂
Which leads me nicely to Mongo. I LOVE him. When that squawking little chicken of a dinosaur first appeared, I was pretty indifferent. I'm not a massive dinosaur girl. But oh, did he prove me wrong. Yes, he's adorable, but he also feels like his own little person. The squawks, the moments when he's desperately trying to behave, the way he stands guard and tries to protect Donut. Oh, my heart. He's perfect. He still causes trouble and definitely needs training, but he's family now. He also has the exact same chaotic energy as my Frenchie, so obviously I'm rooting for him.
Then there's Carl. One of the things I appreciate most about him is that he actually uses his brain. In a world where people are developing extraordinary abilities, it would have been easy to make him a character who relies on brute strength. Punch first, ask questions later. But he doesn't. He thinks his way through problems rather than simply smashing his way out of them, and that's much more rewarding to read. Anyone can punch hard.
I'm also enjoying watching him grow into a leader. He's the first to help where he can and tries to save as many people as possible. He can kill when he has to, but he doesn't relish it. That matters to me. The violence is often outrageous, but the story doesn't let us completely forget that these people never consented to any of this. Carl isn't choosing to be in this dungeon. He's trapped.
I enjoyed meeting more crawlers, too, particularly the way we form opinions about them through the audience's eyes. We hear reputations and see appearances on shows before we properly know the people involved. We're already making judgements about them, but will those judgements hold up when we finally meet them? Who knows.
And I'm thrilled that the world outside the dungeon is beginning to play a larger role. The politics are fascinating, and those glimpses beyond the game remind us that there's a much bigger story unfolding. They also underline just how messed up the whole situation is. This is entertainment. A show. Featuring real people who really die, after their planet has been destroyed. It's horrifying when you actually think about it. Dinniman slips those reminders in amongst the absurdity and humour, so you never quite forget what's happening, even when you're having fun.
The pacing works beautifully. There's almost always something happening, and the quests create smaller arcs that carry you through the book. I honestly can't remember being bored.
As for what I didn't like? Surprisingly little. The prose isn't particularly lyrical or pretty, but that's not what it's trying to be, and I don't think it needs to be. Occasionally, the action gets a bit confusing, especially when it comes to where everyone is and which direction they're moving. It never completely lost me, though.
My one bigger wish is for the story to linger a little longer on the loss of Earth. I know we get those moments, and they're effective, but sometimes I want a little more time to sit with what these characters have actually lost before the chaos starts up again.
Looking ahead, I'm curious whether the series can maintain this momentum or whether moving from level to level might eventually become repetitive.
I'd also like us to develop stronger attachments to more of the supporting characters, because I think we're approaching the point where the story needs to remind us that the heroes don't always win. Carl has been incredibly clever and resourceful, but he's also had his share of luck. Eventually, I want to feel that even doing everything right might not be enough.
I'm not asking for pointless deaths just for shock value. I want consequences that last, losses that genuinely hurt and a reminder of exactly what's at stake. Not our golden trio, though. Absolutely not. I'm not ready for that heartbreak!
For now, though, I had an absolutely brilliant time. The characters, the humour, the ridiculous quests and the wider world all feel stronger, and I finished this book wanting to dive straight into the next one.
Book 3 is already waiting for me, and I couldn't be more excited.
24 October 2026
Approx. page 384 · 100% complete
Oh, this is like changing the rules just to screw you over! What's exploding now? That's not fair.
Hahaha, of course this means Carl ends up naked. The universe is going to LOVE that.
Oh no, the crown! We can't lose that! Okay, the quiver just exploded on that other guy. Donut, maybe you should take yours off?
Wait, did it crumble before she took it off? That could mean something. Technically, it wasn't her choice.
Carl is exactly the leader you need in an emergency!
YES! Blow it all up and get that XP.
Hahaha, of course he's on the show naked. Why wouldn't he be? And Carl, I really don't think a makeshift tissue tunic is going to cover it.
Oh, WHAT? That's some bullshit, Borant! They deserve those Celestial boxes, you tight-arses. They won them fair and square!
Well, that random guy was lucky to open his. I've got a feeling we'll be seeing more of him and his Doctor Strange cloak soon enough.
No, Odette, I'm pushing back on this. Donut would NEVER leave Carl. They've been together long before all of this. She would never... Oh. That's what you meant.
Level four, here we come!
23 October 2026
Approx. page 358 · 93% complete
Okay, how did they hear what Carl said in a safe room?
Ohhhhh, THAT'S how he was heard. And now they're using it against him. Brilliant!
I'm not sure about these clockwork Mongos… I always feel bad for things created just to die, especially when they all act so cute together.
Carl's a genius! I KNEW he'd done something with that shelf.
Holy shit, that was an explosion and a half! Okay, I'm not getting the physics of these bombs either. Hopefully they'll explain it later.
What the hell is this? A serial killer? Some sort of magical Jack the Ripper situation? Ew.
Ohhhh, it was her! Well, collecting that many Beanie Babies as a grown adult is a bit of a red flag, not gonna lie.
Okay, these Krasue things are gross. I'm with Donut. Let's just leave… Mongo, NO!
Okay, now they're just sad. Urgh, I really feel for these NPCs. At least she was put out of her misery.
Ooh, shiny. I'm exactly the same in games. If something looks suspicious, it's usually connected to the game somehow.
Where are all the skyfowl? This isn't right.
Oh, a new friend! Might be handy to have Lion-O from ThunderCats on board.
What's happening? This isn't a boss. And the views, Carl! The VIEWS are important. Listen to Donut!
Nope, I'm not buying it. This is too easy. Just listen to the story? I'm not sure we should even let him finish.
And there it is… Yeah, not good. RUN! (I do love that group quests are a thing, though.)
Aww, look at Donut being all selfless with Carl. Becoming a mother has done wonders for her character growth!
Okay, this could work. I mean, game mechanics say it should work. The box was obviously important, butttt… it's asking a lot.
“I know she's dead.” Donut, my heart! I'm SOBBING!!! 😭😭
Everyone say thank you, Carl!
22 October 2026
Approx. page 304 · 79% complete
Justice for GumGum! Let's do the quest!
Yeah, this Magistrate is dodgy as hell… I'm watching you.
Who turned out the lights? What's happening? Okay… zombies?! Carl, don't throw bombs in the dark! Too late.
Oh, he bounced HIGH, lol. Now it's Donut's turn to save his ass.
Oh, that was definitely a planned hit… Part of the quest?
A shower is a necessity for a princess, though. I see her point.
Okay, this show is different. I love the verbal ripping Donut dishes out… Okay, Carl, you join in too. Oh. Not quite like that. I mean, you're right, but… I don't think you're supposed to talk politics.
Oh, shit. Yeah, that's what I figured. But I also think the Skull were waiting. They did it so instantly, like they were already there waiting, right?!
Oh, they messed up big time. You killed their golden egg in entertainment. I don't think the powers that be will be happy about that.
I really love how two plots are evolving here: the one in the dungeon and the broader politics of the universe. It makes the world feel lived-in and reminds us that Carl is just the latest trend in a long line. I can't wait to explore more of the outside world. I'm intrigued.
These 201st gang are wackos… Shake your leg at them some more, Donut.
The rolling pin is always a weapon in the right hands.
NO, CARL! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! Don't start a fight with them! Urgh, Mordecai's going to be pissed with you.
Oh, hello, new friend who looks like a Picasso drawing but is a tank. Will this be a new addition to the team?
21 October 2026
Approx. page 223 · 58% complete
Shopping sounds fun, and of course Donut will be the queen of haggling. But I have a question about the pet carriage—aka a Poké Ball. Is it actually a nice place for Mongo? Does he get a little room and a bed, or are we just blipping him out of consciousness every time?
Ignore the quest, Carl… Just ignore it.
Oh, great… Now look what's happened. Poor GumGum. 😔
I absolutely love it when characters don't give their enemies time to finish their monologues!
Oh, okay… Hmm. Maybe we should've let him finish after all. What uniform is he wearing? Who is he?
Weird flex, Donut… Where did that come from? Oh, wait—is that what her Earth hobby skill was? She knows badges and patches… I mean, I know it'll come in useful. I just don't know how yet.
Finally, the Desperado Club!! Not what I was imagining—no old saloon—but so much better. A speakeasy meets a Berlin nightclub, with an excessive amount of neon. I'm vibing with it.
Yeah, that cat's drunk on half a Dirty Shirley, lol.
And yet again, Mordecai the manager is proving invaluable… but what is he hiding?
Okay, Carl's gift is great. Way better than his slingshot. This is going to cause some damage.
20 October 2026
Approx. page 180 · 47% complete
Okay, this is a ballsy move. I get it—Carl using the show and its ratings in his favour—but ballsy nonetheless.
OMG, the cone of worms is the grossest thing I've read.
I take it back. The worms reaching up out of his mouth are the grossest thing I've read. Yuck. It's making me gag.
Okay, so it's a soap opera… I mean, it's a bit of a deflated ending, but sure. In a TV sort of way, it works.
Oh, my heart. What a good boy, Mongo! You did your mommy proud! True family. ❤️
Of course Donut's pissed about the lack of airtime, lol. But she has a point about secondary characters not being supposed to outshine the main characters.
Hahaha, no pants for you! Totally worth it, though.
I'm so intrigued by the Desperado Club!
19 October 2026
Approx. page 136 · 35% complete
Oh, this is bad. I knew that naked lady would be trouble. And I knew ghosting her would cause problems.
She’s done WHAT to the princess?!
Heather the bear… with worms. Lovely. And those worms sound disgusting. Ew.
Lucky scratchcard time, and… Oh. Shit.
No, wait. That’s genius.
Now it’s horrible… Poor Heather.
I love the idea of giant 2D sketches fighting it out.
Hold on to that ticket, Carl, like your life depends on it—because it probably does.
18 October 2026
Approx. page 100 · 26% complete
Awww, Mongo is growing up. I never thought I’d find the little teeth on sticks cute, but here we are. He’s becoming adorable.
Ouch, that pet comment must have stung. Personally, I don’t agree; I’d be trying to save my Frenchie… who would immediately dive in to fight a boss ten times his size. Yeah, maybe Carl has a point.
I hate the circus. It creeps me out.
Ooo, this elite looks interesting. Does she have a will of her own? Is she a traitor to the game?
Mouldy lions! WTF?
Okay, yeah, no, scratch that — she’s not a friend. I’m with Donut; let’s ditch her.
Aww, the oldies are still alive… and getting legendary loot??? Urgh, such a waste… Can you send items in messages??
Wait… WHAT IS HAPPENING? WHERE IS DONUT? IF ANY OF YOU TOUCH A HAIR ON HER HEAD!!
17 October 2026
Approx. page 57 · 15% complete
Wow. Borant are horrific. I mean, the NPCs just being created and owned like that… does nobody in the galaxy have an issue with this? It’s abhorrent.
Ooo, lemurs. Erm… okay, too many lemurs. And they’re riding a giraffe?! 😂
Okay, some things should never even be dreamed into existence, and Slender Man clowns are absolutely one of them. I would be crying in a heap if I saw that thing in front of me. Although, let’s be honest, I’d have died about five minutes into level one of the dungeon. Probably taken out by a single rat, knowing my fighting skills.
I thought Mordecai said not the first safe room… Oh. Right. THAT’S why he said not the first safe room. 😂
Earth-based hobbies… I’m intrigued. There are so many possibilities. Okay, what the hell is that? Or that? Of course they turned out to be hobbies nobody knows the name of.
16 October 2026
Page ~32 · 8% complete
Oooooh, races— I’ve been waiting for this!
Well… you could at least have looked through them, Donut. But no. We all knew she wasn’t shifting from perfection. 😂
Okay, Carl… interesting choice. I have my theories.
I love the class options. They are certainly unique! I personally thought Artist Alley Mogul was a great shout purely for the trade discount, but holy hell — a manager? Yeah, that seems invaluable.
Child Star it is, and let’s be fair, it suits Donut down to the ground. I can absolutely imagine her playing the new Sassy in a Homeward Bound remake. 😂
Oooooh, a village. Now this is opening things up. I’m picturing Skyrim villages — as long as there’s not a Lydia blocking every doorway.
Carl, you could have had these beautiful big feet!
BETWEEN THE PAGES / FINAL VERDICT
Final verdict
DUNGEON CHAT
Join the Conversation
Reading along? Already survived the dungeon? Or just wondering what all the fuss is about?
I’d love to hear your thoughts, theories and book recommendations!
Just one rule: no spoilers, please. I’m still making my way through the dungeon, and I’d quite like to experience the surprises for myself. 😂
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