The sequel gets credit for remembering prior relationships and explaining the status of legacy characters rather than simply erasing them. That continuity helps the reunion feel more deliberate.
Pros: world-building, practical effects quality
Cons: plot originality, historical accuracy
The M3GAN connection is thin enough to feel almost standalone, which frustrates some franchise-focused viewers. Others see its return to dangerous-robot horror as closer to the follow-up they wanted.
Pros: action sequences, production design
Cons: family friendliness, originality