Review: The Walking Dead Season 12 (2025)
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

The Walking Dead Season 12 brings the long-running series back to its roots while still pushing the boundaries of survival horror in fresh, unexpected ways. As the final season unfolds, it’s clear that the show still has the power to shock, enthrall, and devastate fans, even after over a decade of brutal apocalypse and heart-wrenching decisions.

The trailer promises a high-stakes conclusion as the group of survivors faces their most challenging threats yet—both from the living and the dead. The lingering question of whether humanity can truly rebuild in a world ravaged by the undead hangs heavy in every frame. The world feels more fragmented than ever as factions struggle for power and control, and the walkers, while still ever-present, take a backseat to the deeper moral and philosophical battles that now take center stage.

At the heart of Season 12 is a return to familiar characters and relationships. The survivors, led by the ever-resilient Daryl (Norman Reedus), find themselves at a critical turning point. As they continue to navigate the harsh, unforgiving world, personal stakes are higher than ever before. Daryl’s leadership is tested in new ways, and the impact of past decisions is starting to weigh on him in ways we haven’t seen before.

One of the more surprising and welcome aspects of Season 12 is the focus on redemption and the question of what it means to survive. The show delves deep into the moral complexities of its characters, with many struggling to reconcile who they were before the outbreak with who they are now. New characters add to the narrative complexity, each one bringing a unique perspective on survival and community. This season feels more introspective, and while the action remains thrilling, there’s an added weight to every choice the characters make.

The tension is palpable in every episode, as the survivors face the combined forces of dangerous new adversaries and their own internal conflicts. The walkers, though still a constant threat, have taken a backseat to the human enemies who now present the real danger. The political intrigue, power struggles, and the clash of ideologies between the various factions introduce a new type of suspense that goes beyond the usual blood and gore.

The action scenes remain some of the best in the series, with breathtaking stunts, brutal combat, and terrifying walker hordes. The practical effects and makeup still hold up remarkably well, and the cinematography feels fresh with its sweeping shots of a world decimated by years of apocalypse. The production value is noticeably higher this season, and it’s clear that the crew is giving it their all in what promises to be a visually stunning farewell.

While the season is undeniably gripping, it does have its moments of predictability, especially for long-time fans who have followed the show for over a decade. Some of the twists, though exciting, feel like recycled themes from past seasons. Nevertheless, the emotional payoff of seeing old characters confront their demons, fight for their lives, and ultimately choose what kind of world they want to rebuild is powerful enough to keep you hooked until the final moments.

One of the more emotional aspects of Season 12 is the deepening of the show’s themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice. The stakes have never been higher, and it’s clear that not everyone will make it out alive. The show’s willingness to take risks, even with beloved characters, ensures that the sense of danger and loss never fades. The final episodes promise to bring tears and cheers alike, leaving fans with a bittersweet goodbye to a franchise that has had such a profound impact on television.

In conclusion, The Walking Dead Season 12 is a fitting end to a long and tumultuous journey. It balances heart-pounding action with emotional depth, offering fans both the closure they crave and the explosive moments that made the show famous. While some storylines may feel familiar, the season still manages to captivate with its dark exploration of survival, hope, and humanity. If you’ve stuck with the series this long, you’ll find Season 12 to be a satisfying conclusion to the saga—intense, emotional, and unforgettably brutal.