Ranking Every Season of Cobra Kai: A Comprehensive Review

Overview

Season one introduces the rivalry, themes, and characters, earning it the top spot.
Season three excels with its focus on Miguel’s recovery and emotional development, placing it in the second position.

The Karate Kid, released in 1984, brought to life iconic characters such as Daniel LaRusso, Johnny Lawrence, and the unforgettable Sensei Mr. Miyagi. The storyline follows Daniel’s journey from New Jersey to The Valley, where he faces bullying from Johnny and the Cobra Kai dojo. Mr. Miyagi intervenes, teaching Daniel his unique methods of Karate, empowering him to stand up to his tormentors and ultimately triumph in the All Valley Karate Championship. Overflowing with 80s nostalgia, this captivating underdog narrative has since blossomed into a franchise that includes two sequels, a reboot, and an impressive continuation on television.

Transitioning to the small screen via YouTube Red and later Netflix, Cobra Kai depicted an older Johnny Lawrence grappling with his past defeat against LaRusso. Attempting to rebuild his life, he reignites an age-old rivalry while striving to revive his Karate dojo. The show has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, culminating in its final season. This leads us to ask: how do the seasons of Cobra Kai stack up against each other?

6 Season Four

A Flawed Yet Entertaining Season

Best Episode: “The Rise”
Worst Episode: “Kicks Get Chicks”

Season Four of Cobra Kai marks a noticeable shift as it includes the reintroduction of Terry Silver, which leads to a more exaggerated tone compared to earlier seasons. Despite the leaning towards absurdity, the season maintains its entertainment value.

This season showcases the combined dojos of Johnny and Daniel and the dynamics of a reluctant partnership. Meanwhile, Daniel’s son becomes involved with a new student, Kenny, who ends up joining Cobra Kai after being bullied. Additionally, John Kreese faces wrongful accusations, leading to his imprisonment. While entertaining, Season Four ultimately ranks at the bottom of the list due to its peculiar turns.

5 Season Five

Battling for the Sekai Taikai

Best Episode: “Head Of The Snake”
Worst Episode: “Downward Spiral”

Season Five ramps up the stakes as Terry Silver takes center stage as the main antagonist. Following a victory at the All-Valley tournament, Silver sets his sights on expanding Cobra Kai’s influence by entering the prestigious Sekai Taikai competition.

The season kicks off with the heroes feeling setback but eventually uniting against Silver’s power. The captivating climax features an all-out battle between Cobra Kai and a reformed Miyagi Do, culminating in Silver’s arrest and Kreese’s escape from prison. While Season Five is thrilling, its ranking is hindered when compared to stronger previous seasons.

4 Season Two

Inception of the Karate Wars

Best Episode: “No Mercy”
Worst Episode: “Back In Black”

Cobra Kai’s second season faced the challenge of meeting expectations set by its predecessor, and it rose to the occasion. It reintroduces John Kreese, the original villain, and features intense relationship dynamics between characters, especially with the introduction of Tory Nichols.

The season culminates in a dramatic school brawl between Miyagi Do and Cobra Kai students, climaxing with Miguel’s debilitating fall triggered by Robby. This season is impactful and exciting, yet it doesn’t quite reach the exceptional heights of other installments.

3 Season Six

A Finale that Resonates

Best Episode: “Ex-Degenerate”
Worst Episode: “The Prize”

While Season Six begins rather slowly due to its staggered release format, it strategically builds tension leading to the much-anticipated Sekai Taikai tournament in Barcelona. The narrative elegantly transitions back to the Valley for the dramatic conclusion.

John Kreese makes a notable return, aiming for personal redemption while coaching another dojo. The season, though lagging initially, crescendos into an impactful finale, solidifying its position as one of the series’ finest seasons.

2 Season Three

Miguel’s Remarkable Journey

Best Episode: “December 19”
Worst Episode: “Now You’re Gonna Pay”

Season Three takes off from the climactic school fight, showcasing the aftermath of Miguel’s injuries and Robby’s desperate situation. The emotional stakes run high as Johnny seeks to mend his relationship with Robby while also aiding Miguel in his recovery journey.

The season is rich with gripping moments, featuring intense battles culminating in an unforgettable showdown at the LaRusso household. The heartwarming moment of Miguel regaining the ability to walk solidifies this season as one of the best in the Cobra Kai franchise.

1 Season One

The Unrivaled Excellence of the First Season

Best Episode: “Mercy”
Worst Episode: “Cobra Kai Never Dies”

The inaugural season of Cobra Kai faced the monumental task of re-establishing its characters after a 30-year hiatus. This season follows Johnny Lawrence, a man reflected on his life, as he attempts to resurrect Cobra Kai and reclaim his purpose.

With the fierce rivalry between LaRusso and Lawrence reaching new levels, their interactions explore deeper themes of redemption and mentorship. Johnny’s relationship with Miguel portrays how misguided teachings can have lasting consequences, leading to personal growth by the season’s end. Season One masterfully embodies the spirit of Cobra Kai, standing as the undisputed best of the series.

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