The Legend of Vox Machina's Season 2 MVP: Scanlan's Deviation from Critical Role's Campaign

The animated series adaptation of Critical Role, "The Legend of Vox Machina," has brought the epic "how do you wanna do this?" moment to bard Scanlan Shorthalt in his battle against Umbrasyl, the Hope Devourer, in its second season. However, Scanlan's deviation from Critical Role's actual-play campaign became the season's MVP.

As the Chroma Conclave arc began, Sam Regiel's Scanlan proposed that Vox Machina should avoid stepping up as heroes of the realm and leave Emon. This instinct became a season-long arc for the party's witty musician, who had several moments of reflection and heroism that deviated from the original campaign.

The introduction of Scanlan's daughter, Kaylie, voiced by Aisling Franciosi, became a crucial turning point for him, making him realize his responsibility to Vox Machina and the realm. This realization was contrasted with Liam O'Brien's Vax'ildan, who had to accept his duty as the champion of the Matron of Ravens.

While Scanlan and Vax partnered up often, including their sequence inside Umbrasyl's stomach, Scanlan's chance to step up came when he dealt the final blow to the Hope Devourer. This deviation from the original campaign made Scanlan the season's MVP.

The upcoming season, "The Legend of Vox Machina Season 3," will see Vox Machina facing off against the remaining members of the Chroma Conclave, along with other threats, including Anna Ripley, who witnessed Umbrasyl's final moments.