"Stargate SG-1" Review Season 03, Episode 07, Deadman Switch

"Stargate SG-1" Review Season 03, Episode 07, Deadman Switch

8/10

6th August 1999
Written By: Robert C. Cooper
Directed By: Martin Wood

While on a mission to retrieve an aerial probe which had been shot down, SG-1 is trapped by an armoured man who claims to be the greatest Hunter in the galaxy and who intends on handing them over to the Goa'uld for their bounty.

There are a few new introductions in technology and information in this episode.

The first is that there exists a small shield barrier which can be used to contain a small area and prevent anything short of air and light from getting out yet which does not prevent anything from going in. It is called a Shield Trap, and while similar barrier designs will crop up later this particular one will not.

The second is that there are independent or partly independent humans or human-like races who act as bounty hunters and mercenaries for the Goa'uld. These bounty hunters are bound to service through drugs or similar substances which they require to survive.

The third is that there is a bounty for each member of SG-1.

The fourth is that there exists Goa'uld technology which cloaks vessels from sight, though not normally equipped on small vessels. These vessels also have a self destruct mechanism.

The fifth is a Goa'uld remote automated turrets called Tacluchnatagamuntoron, or Tacs, similar in shape to the shock grenade. It targets heat signatures and fires small bursts of energy.

The sixth is that it is possible to modify a Zat'nik'tel not to have any effect on a person; perfect for tricking an enemy into disarming you and thinking you dead by your own weapon. This particular modification is not used later, though training weapons with a non-lethal charge exist.

The plot is good, the acting talent is good, the effects are good and well integrated.

Link to Series Review:
Stargate SG-1