The Royal Gambler

A strong, solid and gripping introduction that captured the expected theme perfectly, accompanied with thrilling gambling scenes. Choi Min Soo instantly pulled all the attention to himself. He did such an amazing job embodying this harsh intimidating king. However, it wasn't all sunshine and roses, most of the glamorous elements that made the drama attractive were evaporated after 3 episodes. A handful of useless characters may come and go. The gambling became a secondary plot device. Stretching the drama thin and long by introducing three mini-bosses like an anime arc. The main lead was equipped with impervious plot armor eliminating the tension and risks. He may suffer irrecoverable fatal damage just to be resurrected from the depths of hell because the drama can't continue otherwise. A handful of other writing problems that kept holding the drama back sprinkled throughout. The only character that remained interesting was King Suk Jong, waiting desperately for his next scene of which they were scarce for a main lead. Yeo Jin Goo should stop picking up king/historical roles, he might be one drama away from being entrapped in typecasting hell forever.