Ep 6. Categorically Speaking

The Tick season 2 episode 6 titled "Categorically Speaking" begins with a fast-paced action sequence as Tick and Arthur battle a horde of robotic monsters. Meanwhile, Overkill faces Offense and Retreat in an underground fight club. However, the plot takes a twisted turn when Tick and Arthur get called to a crime scene where a petty criminal has been murdered. While investigating the crime, Tick and Arthur discover that the authorities have developed a new high-tech algorithm that can predict crime and thereby prevent it. This algorithm classifies everyone in The City as "good" or "bad," and the duo quickly become concerned as they realize that this system could lead to discriminatory practices and a loss of free will.

Tick and Arthur approach the only person they know who understands complex algorithms - their old university friend, Professor Chromedome. As they evaluate the algorithm, they realize the system completely hinges on the perspective of whoever coded it. In this case, the coder was Merle, the petty criminal who was killed at the start of the episode. They start to unravel behind the scenes events leading to Merle's death. They discover that the people who funded the algorithm had been manipulating Merle in order to get the algorithm completed. Tick, Arthur, and Professor Chromedome decide they need to create a new algorithm to counter the flawed one.

As the episode progresses, the situation gets increasingly complex as Tick and Arthur realize that the algorithm is not just about preventing crime. It also affects everyday decisions like job hiring and insurance costs. They realize that the algorithm made the population of The City too homogeneous. Tick and Arthur devise a plan to create a new algorithm that is fairer and doesn't discriminate. The pair gathers clever minds from various fields and works together to make a better algorithm to promote diversity instead of avoiding it.

Aside from the crime-solving and algorithm development, we see the development of personal relationships. The relationship between Arthur and Tick has always been central to the show, and as they work together to defeat the flawed algorithm, they learn even more about one another. Additionally, Dot and Overkill's relationship is tested. They both value their beliefs and their goals for the greater good, and their different approaches strain their bond. In the midst of this confusion, they have to navigate their mutual feelings for one another.

The episode also features a more sophisticated role for Dot, a character who has typically delegated herself to the background. As she realizes that her brother Arthur has been working with superheroes, she wants to be more involved and ends up playing a role in the algorithm's refinement.

In conclusion, "Categorically Speaking" showcases a fast-paced narrative that is equal parts action-packed superhero adventure and thought-provoking social critique. It experiments with issues of free will, diversity, and discrimination while further developing the relationship dynamics among the cast. The compelling storyline and engaging performances by the cast make this episode a must-watch for fans of The Tick.