Doctor Who: EVERY Regeneration Story Ranked Worst To Best
6. The War Games
The Second Doctor’s era came to a close with a ten-part epic – the result of Season 6’s final two stories falling through, and the slots being merged into one.
And as even the most ardent fan will admit, at 250 minutes, The War Games is just a little bit too long.
However, the length also lends it a weighty, monumental feel, which befits its status as both the last Patrick Troughton story and the last one to be shot in black and white. For those put off by the runtime, 2024’s colourisation is mercifully shorter (if a little too pacy).
The plot itself – soldiers being pitted against each other in simulated war zones to create the ultimate army – is pure Doctor Who, with two standout villains in the form of the War Chief and War Lord.
But the highlight has to be the Gallifrey-set final part, which is easily one of the best in the show’s entire history. In particular, the twist of the Doctor having to give up his companions, and his freedom, to save the day is so cruel but so so effective.