Warning: Spoilers for Tower of God: Return of the Prince episode 1Although a few fans were justified in their initial concern about Tower of God season 2, the first new episode of the second season, and 14th overall, eventually quells some, if not most, of their fears, but not as immediately as some hoped. The new cast of characters, especially the new protagonist Ja Wangnan, take center stage for the vast majority of Tower of God: Return of the Prince episode 1 as the synopsis greatly implied they would, but Bam’s eponymous return does happen by the end, and the effect is massive, although not necessarily worth the wait.

Bam’s surprising devotion to Rachel may have been greatly misplaced in season 1, but it made him endearing. Ironically, as was a major problem with most characters in season 1, Ja’s reason for climbing the tower is left a mystery to the detriment of his character’s portrayal, and although it’s likely that there’s a very emotional motivator driving him forward, Return of the Prince minimizes all ostensible importance, leaving nothing but his unnecessary quirkiness and cringe-worthy reactions to unfortunate situations.

As a result, it’s difficult for viewers to feel for him despite the fact he’s undoubtedly going through some hard times. In a sense, Ja can be perceived as a hollow, unlikable caricature of Shibisu. So when a character who is greatly implied to be Bam appears on the scene, those who were critical of the episode undoubtedly sighed in relief.

Bam’s Incredible Transformation Makes Sense and Helps Propel Ja to Possible Greatness

Based on the Manhwa Created by Lee Jong-hui; Anime produced by TMS Entertainment

Bam’s surprising change in character is arguably one of the most stunning developments in not just Return of the Prince but the entirety of Tower of God. As noted above, Bam’s innocence and his almost annoying trust and belief in others’ goodness made him likable, but, as Shibisu said about him in season 1, he hadn’t lost anything. For viewers, this meant he didn’t have to fight to regain what was taken from him, which meant they had less to feel about him. Now, Bam has indeed lost something, and it’s affected him to such a degree that he’s now the intriguing, dark, brooding, tortured hero type.

Luckily, Bam’s transformation makes sense even though it’s so sudden. As one character mentions, he’s apparently wearing the clothing of a faction known as FUG that openly opposes Jahad. If Bam espouses FUG’s belief, then it’s possible that he blames Rachel’s betrayal on being manipulated by Jahad, since the eponymous Tower of God is theirs. So, he might not be motivated by a need to seek vengeance on Rachel, but on the King of Jahad, which is believable.

Moreover, a scene where Ja exclaims his desire to climb the tower is important because it causes Bam to remember Rachel. It now more deeply connects the new protagonist to the original one everyone loves, rather than just associating them by chance. This scene proves that Bam clearly sees Rachel’s conviction in Ja, and this will likely define their relationship going forward.

Tower of God: Return of the Prince failed to address the issues that some viewers had with its first episode until after the 20-minute mark. Some may say this was too late, but at least Bam is now expected to be there with Ja for the long haul.