[Season 2] Episode 21: Dragon Quest... beyond the board

HELLOOO everybody and welcome to Cultures Compendium of Reviews! As always, I am Culture Shock. Your guide to all things cultural in Equestria and beyond. In todays review, we learn how fitting in isn't always easy. Before we begin, however, let's review the rules. First off, all content within this blog is expressly the opinion of its author. It does not, nor should it ever, reflect the overall opinion of the fandom. Lastly, if any of you notice any mistakes, be it typos or otherwise, don't hesitate to let me know. With that said, let's begin. Shall we?

Dragon Quest is the 21st episode of season 2 and the 47th overall. Written by Merriwether Williams, the episode follows Spike as he searches for the answer to who he is. Unsure of his place in the world, Spike sets out to join the Great Dragon Migration to discover his true identity. But just when things work out Spike is left questioning his moral code. Can he choose the right path?

Alright. I'll admit. I'm split on this episode. To me personally, I kinda feel like it's an unfair jab at us male fans for liking a show about pastel ponies. At the same time however, I feel like the end perfectly personifies the meaning of the shows main theme. Or to put it mildly, this is a love - hate type of episode. Not exactly a bad thing. But not exactly the best thing either.

Though to best summarize, I think Spike said it best when he wrote "who I am isn't the same as what I am". Put simply, it's not our labels that define us but rather who we choose to be that does. Bronies come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. Just because we're guys it doesn't mean we can't enjoy things like MLP. We're just as free to pick to pick what like and don't like. Regardless of the group it's originally targetted at.

So, I think what I despise about the episode is how Spike generally gets picked on and abused by both his friends and his own kind. Of course, the dragons I can understand since they're meant to represent the haters outside of the commumnity. They played their part well. But having Rainbow Dash and even best pony Pinkie Pie belittling him in the beginning and Rarity babying him was just a low blow. Especially since real friends are support and encourage each other. Not pick on the weakest link. For shame Hasbro, for shame.

Alright! This concludes my review of Dragon Quest. Not comletely a terrible episode but definitely not one I'd recommend. I give this episode a 6 / 10. Hope you guys enjoyed the review. Be sure to leave a like if you did. Also, don't forget to follow us for more updates. Got a suggestion for a review? Leave it in the comments section down below. This has been Culture Shock, your guide to all things cultural in Equestria and beyond, saying KEEP CALM AND BRONY ON!! PEACE!!