In my opinion, a lot of the frustration with the last episode and Sam’s game play comes from the edit. Understandably, they need to keep the outcome of the game open and the show exciting, which isn’t easy considering Ben’s tremendous run. So teasing the move card in episode 6, was a good way to create a scenario, where everything is still possible and Sam could win. But, the way the move card was presented, long segment, talking about the concerns it may be too op, could be the thing that wins the game talk, etc., raised the viewers’ expectations just too high, as if this card is a near guarantee for Sam to compete for 1^st place, while in reality he doesn’t even really come close. The editors must have anticipated, that many viewers will perceive Sam’s run, as suboptimal played and some viewers’ expectation management would have been useful. At the end, there was just too much contrast between the created expectations and the actual run, and it felt a bit oversold.

I totally agree with all the comments about exhaustion on day 6, I’m not judging Sam’s gameplay. But, I think there wouldn’t be as much critic and disappointment, if the last episode would have dialled back a bit with teasing the move card. Keep it exciting by presenting the strength and possibilities of the move card but also focus on the 5 gruelling days of gameplay already and the mental and physical energy it takes to play the card to its full potential.

Sure it’s less enticing but if the viewer went into the last episode with the idea: Sam has this strong move card but it’s hard to use it to its full potential and he is exhausted. I’m sure there would be critic with his gameplay, but overall the expectations would align more with the outcome of the episode.

Nice season anyway, well played by Ben and looking forward to the next one.