: The episode is often cited as a turning point for Howard’s character, offering a rare glimpse into the insecurity behind his "creepy" persona.
Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar
S 2 E 12 The Killer Robot Instability Analysis. : r/bigbangtheory
is the twelfth episode of the second season of The Big Bang Theory , first aired on January 12, 2009. The episode follows two primary storylines: the guys' participation in a cutthroat robot fighting competition and a major emotional confrontation between Howard Wolowitz and Penny . Plot Overview
: This episode marks the first appearance of Barry Kripke , played by John Ross Bowie .
: The guys build a 110-pound fighting robot named M.O.N.T.E. (Mobile Omnidirectional Neutralization and Termination Eradicator). After an obnoxious colleague, Barry Kripke , challenges them to an unsanctioned duel, the guys' robot is brutally destroyed by the "Kripke Killer" because Howard—the team’s engineer—is absent.
: Leonard guilt-trips Penny into apologizing to Howard. When she does, Howard attempts to take advantage of her kindness by going in for a kiss, leading Penny to punch him in the face. Notable Firsts and Trivia
: The "instability" of the title refers as much to Howard’s mental state as to the robot. After Howard makes an inappropriate advance, Penny snaps, telling him he will "grow old and die alone" because he is "creepy". This sends Howard into a deep depression, leading him to hole up in his bedroom and miss the robot battle.