Where episode 4 has Joel and Alice discovering the full potential of the box and the multiverse therein, episode 5 is more about learning control of the outcomes behind the numerous doors. While the pacing remains largely pleasant, there are some jumps and decisions made in its timeline that steer the show towards timidity a tad more. It leans on a step-by-step uncovering of the various universes that lay closer to 'home', filling up the gaps amidst scenarios with close-knit tension.
The fifth installment of the first season of Dark Matter offers more in-depth exploration of the minds of both Jason1 and Amanda, while leaving little room for development of other characters. Where episode 4 leaned in on a close look at Jason2, episode 5 foregoes most of that development in favor of the main storyline. As with most series that feature parallel universes of the sorts, it can get tough to balance two main characters and their respective story arcs. Dark Matter is no different in that regard: it clearly wants to juggle both arcs, but has a hard time developing both at the same time.
That's not to say "Worldless" is suddenly poor television, hardly so. The focus on our 'main' Jason allows for detailed development of Amanda, played by an ever-growing and increasingly talented Alice Braga, and the dynamic between her and Edgerton. Where we can see Jason2 tumble further down into the man he did not want to be in episode 4, episode 5 continues that setting but with a mildly comforting intersection between him and Daniela. While the episode features some emotionally heavy aspects, most of it does not linger very long, as is no surprise. The show explores multiple universes with world-changing events having taken place, while not being able to fully convey the gravity of such events. As of right now, Dark Matter remains tense foremost, but timid otherwise.