Reviewers have expressed mixed feelings about the episode's effectiveness: :
In this episode, the focus shifts heavily toward the forging of the Seven Rings for the Dwarf-lords and the increasing psychological manipulation of Celebrimbor by Annatar (Sauron). Key subplots involve King Durin III’s descent into greed driven by his new ring, the political turmoil in Númenor as Pharazôn tightens his grip, and the Elven high command’s growing suspicion of the events in Eregion. Power_2x05
: Viewers noted that while the Eregion and Dwarven plotlines were engaging, other stories—specifically the Númenor and Harfoot arcs—often felt like "deadweights" that disrupted the episode's momentum. Reviewers have expressed mixed feelings about the episode's
Charles Edwards (Celebrimbor) and Charlie Vickers (Annatar) carry the episode. Power_2x05
Maintaining the high visual standards expected of the series.