In Optional Boss Battle, Nick Malakhow crafts a beautifully rendered portrait of two teen boys coming to terms with past trauma in a locked-down world, struggling to connect to their mothers and, most importantly, to each other. It's a gorgeous play that uses technology not simply to dazzle but to advance the story and reflect the struggles and complexities of Alonso and Ruben. Affirming, sharp, and deeply felt work.

This is a beautiful play that captures teenage loneliness and grief in the Lockdown days, sure, but also the isolation and fear teens have faced in every era. Ruben and Alonzo are easy-to-love characters, and their mothers feel vivid and real. Malakhow builds the boys' relationship perfectly over the course of the play, so that we are watching their friendship grow and change authentically. I love the battle scenes and the magical realism flip when they are playing the game. A gripping play!

OPTIONAL BOSS BATTLE beautifully captures the tender, messy journey of two teens navigating grief, isolation, and connection during the pandemic. With honesty and compassion, Malakhow explores the weight of mental health, identity, and friendship in these challenging times. A truly moving piece.