why was scoops troop considered the 'comic relief' plot line in season 3? i get that it wasn't meant to be important but it was just as if not more crucial than the primary russia plot line with jopper and murray and alexei. it dealt with more serious topics than they let on. steve and robin were drugged, and yeah, when they were high it was funny, but they're teenagers and god knows what long term effects the drugs might have on them. they also beat steve unconscious, and the only people around to save him and robin were a 10 year old and an 14 year old, because nobody else was around. realistically speaking, they would/should have died down there.
I think although what happened to them was messed up, the dynamic was very funny hence why their plot line was a bit ridiculous. Robin and Erica are both sarcastic compared to Dustin and Steve being more goofy meaning they are able to do silly things but keep it grounded without being afraid to make jokes out of everyone (e.g. although Erica often is the one making jokes, she also wants to drink toxic green liquid and is in denial about being a nerd). Personally, I think it's well done as it's scary and emotional when it needs to be but mostly goofy and light hearted.
However, I really wish that S5 will bring up the effects of being captured and tortured could have on someone, even if it's just a little conversation between Steve and Robin. That scene was legitimately so scary and it would've messed up both of them significantly; I think it would be wise to explore that, especially with the theme of Vecna representing trauma and depression. Thanks for the ask!