On a tropical paradise planet, Mariner questions Commander Ransom on how he structures his away team and Boimler makes a bold career decision.

After an unimpressive season opener, Lower Decks’ second episode is a lot more satisfactory, with multiple plot lines and some nicely played humour.

We start with the ensigns playing an interactive Klingon video game (who’s old enough to remember the 1996 game Klingon?) where they follow instructions from Martok (J G Hertzler reprising his role). Boimler is jealous that Bolian Vendome had become a Starfleet captain, and that what’s stopping him from progressing is his propensity to play things safe.

Tendi suggests that if Boimler took a few more chances then he might be recognised for his sense of adventure, whether joining a sports team, singing in a Bajoran dirge choir or being hunted as prey by a predatory species. Elsewhere, Mariner is locking horns with Ransom, who’s insisting that the engineers handle a cultural misunderstanding while the command crew fix a broken space elevator.

Verdict: There’s plenty going on, some credible jeopardy and (most importantly) the ensigns are engaging. This is more like it. 8/10

Nick Joy