Arrow Season 8 Review: 7 Ups & 2 Downs From 'Present Tense'

6. Team Arrow: Next Gen Finally Feel Like A Part Of The Show

Ever since the flash-forward narrative began, William, Mia and Connor (and Zoe) have held their own and proven themselves as strong, effective characters. However, the narrative itself has often struggled with lack of screen-time and little plot progression - something that was really hindering this season's intriguing sibling rivalry between Connor and JJ.

Moving these characters into the present was a stroke of genius because now they have the focus they need to fully develop. No longer do they have to rush to reach a certain plot point before the show cuts back to someone (or something) else more important in the present.

We need to fully know these characters before the show comes to an end - especially if one of them is expected to co-lead a spin-off show - and now, they have to room to breathe which gives us a chance to do just that. And that, more than anything, may just be the best thing to come out of this move.