Storytelling remains traditional, focused on strategy, human nature, trauma, and escape rather than social justice framing. The sole notable progressive element is the returning supporting character Kuina (Aya Asahina), whose transgender identity receives a dedicated flashback arc exploring her backstory and self-acceptance; this subplot appears in season 1 and carries over incidentally without altering game mechanics or the season's core premise of lethal competitions.

All casting uses Japanese actors in a Japan-set story with no established-character race or gender swaps. Minor thematic nods to societal outcasts (e.g., hikikomori isolation) arise organically from the manga source and character backstories, not activist messaging. Reception shows no significant "woke" backlash or creator statements prioritizing inclusion over plot; audience focus stays on tension and twists.