A big reason for seeing "The Sword, The Fox and Scooby Doo" is of course being a huge lifelong fan of Scooby Doo, something that is never going to change considering how much the franchise helped me throughout 2021-2022. Another big reason is Mark Hamill being the guest star. Have always liked him, Luke Skywalker is an iconic character and he is my personal favourite interpretation of the Joker. The episode was immensely enjoyable on first watch, while not quite being one of the best episodes.
"The Sword, The Fox and the Scooby Doo" is still immensely enjoyable. My feelings of it not being one of the best 'Scooby Doo and Guess Who' episodes still stands, and it could easily have been with better pacing and less obvious perpetrator, but so also does my opinion of Hamill being one of the show's better guest stars. 'Scooby Doo and Guess Who' for me is a good Scooby Doo incarnation, with a good mix of old and new, even if some episodes and guest stars are better than others.
Beginning with what isn't so good, "The Sword, The Fox and the Scooby Doo" is on the rushed side at times.
Did feel too that the perpetrator was far too obvious, actually knew who it was practically straightaway.
However, there is so much to like here in "The Sword, The Fox and the Scooby Doo". A big asset is Hamill, who was clearly enjoying himself without dominating. He has seamless interaction with the gang and that he is no stranger to the Scooby Doo franchise works in his favour too. Loved the references to his previous work and roles, with notable references to 'Star Wars' and as the Joker, very affectionately nostalgic and clever without being too reliant. The gang are on point, especially with Shaggy and Scooby who have some nice bits with Hamill.
Furthermore, the villain is great with only the over obvious and premature perpetrator identity underwhelming. A great mix of cute and creepy from the eyes alone, and gives way to some classic Shaggy and Scooby moments like the Scooby mirror routine. The jokes are funny, especially with Hamill, and did appreciate the fresh takes on old Scooby Doo tropes. Such as Hamill interrupting the painting eyes gag.
No issues to be had with the colourful and atmospheric animation or the dynamic music. The theme tune is catchy, if a bit too short again. The mystery has a lot of energy and atmosphere, it just could have been better paced.
Concluding, very well done. 8/10.
