⭐ While the procedural plot regarding Russian mobsters is somewhat cliché, the episode succeeds as a character study of Castle’s eternal "inner child." Castle Season 7 Episode 4 Review: Child's Play - TV Fanatic
Some critics felt the "Beckett/Ryan/Espo" investigation felt thin or underwritten compared to the classroom scenes. [S7E4] Child's Play
The sudden shift into a high-stakes hunt for an international war criminal in the final ten minutes was viewed by some as far-fetched or rushed. ⭐ While the procedural plot regarding Russian mobsters
The episode begins with the murder of an ice cream truck driver named Anton, who was caught in the middle of a high-stakes conspiracy. [S7E4] Child's Play
The chemistry between Castle and the children was cited as the "true joy" of the hour.