Summary
Star Trekfans are very particular when it comes to phasers, so some were taken aback when they realized that the device shown in theStar Trek: Strange New Worldsseason 2 finale is the same as those issued in Section 31 in one episode ofStar Trek: Discoveryseason 2.
Phasers are an iconic and essential element of theStar Trekfranchise. Starfleet personnel and other characters use these handheld energyweapons throughout theStar Trekfranchise. Their design gives a futuristic appearance and makes them easily recognizable, as they are synonymous with theStar Trekfranchise. That was why eagle-eyed fans immediately noticed that the assault phaser featured inStrange New Worldsseason 2 was something familiar.
One fan (Haphazard Melange) took to Reddit and shared a fun fact about the assault phasers featured inStrange New Worldsin the Gorn Protocol Box. The netizen shared a snap and stressed they were the same phasers issued to Section 31 inStar Trek: Discoveryseason 2. The phasers are identical despite the different timelines between theDiscoveryandStrange New Worlds. The latter picks up where the former left off and provides a setup forStar Trek: The Original Series.Discovery’s timeline is between 2256 and 2258, whileStrange New Worldsis set in 2259, leading toThe Original Seriesthat takes place in 2265. Considering the timeline, the phasers inStrange New Worldsshould have been more advanced and different from those featured inDiscovery. So, the fan’s concern was valid.
The post on Reddit received mixed responses, with several wanting the online user who raised the concern to let it go as prop reuse. They believed the production was just being resourceful by using the existing props. However, a number also pointed out that utilizing the same phaser made sense because, beforeStar Trek: Strange New Worlds,Section 31 had already engaged with the Gorn, suggesting that the phaser featured inDiscoverywas already advanced and utilizing them inStrange New Worldswas not a random reuse of props.
Phasers are highly versatile weapons capable of various settings and functions. Depending on the setting, they can stun, kill, vaporize, or cut through obstacles. This versatility makes them invaluable tools for Starfleet officers in various situations, from peaceful exploration to combat. They symbolize the ideals ofStarfleet and the Federationand are designed to minimize casualties and preserve life whenever possible. Most importantly, they play a crucial role in the plot ofStar Trekepisodes and movies, so It is understandable why fans are critical of their design and functionality.
The concern being raised is valid.Star Trekfans expect more advanced and futuristic phasers inStrange New Worlds. However, the phasers given to Section 31 may already be advanced enough to handle the Gorn, hence the props being reused.Section 31 already used advanced technologylike transporters, the holodeck, and memory-altering technology, so they likely had access to the latest prototypes and research. Also, it’s possible that the phaser looked similar to those featured inDiscoveryexternally but had more advanced functionalities. It probably has a newer emitter, a bigger battery, and more advanced frequency tuning. It’s better not to be overly critical of the props and give it to production unless it becomes a real concern.
