Spare Parts

Main Range #34

Released: 31 July 2002

Listened: 12/13/19

This is one of the legendary Big Finish stories, often referred to as “Genesis of the Cybermen.” I think it’s pretty good, with some interesting minor characters, and Nyssa gets put through the emotional wringer. I have to say, though, that I’m not quite sure it lives up to its billing. The idea that Mondas isn’t just Earth’s twin, but an exact copy of Earth, down to the streets and the holidays, has never rung quite true for me. As an origin story for the Cybermen, it’s strong, and Davison does a great job depicting the Doctor’s anguish here. I’m just not sure if it’s as strong as “The Doctor Falls” from the end of the Twelfth Doctor’s tenure.