1b is far, FAR better than 1a.
I gotta admit that in these styles of shows, for whatever reason, I'm a sucker for team-picking, I feel like it's a far better way of introducing the characters of the show to the audience than whatever 1a did.
Unlike 1a, jokes/gag landed, it may not work for some people but the delivery of some lines, intentional or not, it's absolutely hilarious, I found myself laughing out loud at Blocky's silly face when he says "Did you just SAY that?") I think that's a prefect example of how 1b finds its footing and embraces zaniness and silliness.
Pacing is much, MUCH better than last episode, it's still has times when it's a bit off, but the episode was much more sound in that regard, the climax was much better done than last time.
In general it's crazy how much of a leap in quality this episode is, obviously there's a lot to improve, it all still looks very cheap and the voice acting is still subpar... but the Huang brothers are just getting started.
Wrapping up... decent!