The original comic book What If? had the whole range of characters to pull from, but it seems this show does want to focus on the MCU. That makes sense in that introducing scenarios completely outside of the MCU would confuse non-readers, but it does leave so many great stories off the table.
Disney+ viewers as a whole have been underwhelmed by What If?, probably due to a combination of the animated format and a recycling of existing characters. I found it to be hit and miss, with the Thor episode just too silly for example.
The series does introduce concepts that will very likely impact the live action MCU, including the Watcher Uatu, Captain Carter, and the Marvel Zombies.
The animation style, you just either get used to it or it becomes distractingly annoying. I fully understand Marvel can’t put a ton of money into the animation, it would be cost prohibitive. Having so many live action cast members doing the voice over work is impressive, I have to admit.
My hope is Marvel looks at what worked best in season one and builds on that for season two. At least those new What If? inspired toys will be coming our way…
