TV shows often struggle to replicate the excitement of video games, but there are moments when both forms come together in perfect harmony. Take Edge of Tomorrow, for instance, which has an unmistakable feel reminiscent of sci-fi roguelike gameplay.
However, it's also possible that TV shows can learn from video games' pitfalls - like unnecessary side-quests and excessive open-world bloat. The most recent season of Stranger Things served as a prime example of this. With its sprawling narrative, numerous characters, and an overabundance of exposition-heavy scenes, the show started to feel more like a never-ending game session than a engaging story.
A possible explanation for this trend is the influence of video games on TV and film creators. As an increasingly younger generation of gamers enters positions of power in these industries, they bring their gaming expertise with them. This can result in shows that are too focused on spectacle, action, and dialogue-heavy moments, while neglecting character development and meaningful storytelling.
The boundaries between interactive and non-interactive entertainment are becoming increasingly blurred as a result. Many movies now feel like games, thanks to increased reliance on computer-generated graphics and a faster-paced narrative. This fusion of styles can be a good thing when done right - just think of Edge of Tomorrow.
But not all TV shows are lucky enough to benefit from this synergy. Stranger Things' finale felt more like an endurance test than a thrilling conclusion, with extended scenes that left little room for character development or meaningful plot progression.
A notable exception to this trend is the game Indika, which tackles complex themes and issues in its narrative, blurring the lines between game and story even further. Available on PC, PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, this surreal and thought-provoking experience offers a compelling argument for why TV shows can learn from video games.
Ultimately, there's still much to be gained by embracing both the excitement of video games and the more cerebral aspects of storytelling.
However, it's also possible that TV shows can learn from video games' pitfalls - like unnecessary side-quests and excessive open-world bloat. The most recent season of Stranger Things served as a prime example of this. With its sprawling narrative, numerous characters, and an overabundance of exposition-heavy scenes, the show started to feel more like a never-ending game session than a engaging story.
A possible explanation for this trend is the influence of video games on TV and film creators. As an increasingly younger generation of gamers enters positions of power in these industries, they bring their gaming expertise with them. This can result in shows that are too focused on spectacle, action, and dialogue-heavy moments, while neglecting character development and meaningful storytelling.
The boundaries between interactive and non-interactive entertainment are becoming increasingly blurred as a result. Many movies now feel like games, thanks to increased reliance on computer-generated graphics and a faster-paced narrative. This fusion of styles can be a good thing when done right - just think of Edge of Tomorrow.
But not all TV shows are lucky enough to benefit from this synergy. Stranger Things' finale felt more like an endurance test than a thrilling conclusion, with extended scenes that left little room for character development or meaningful plot progression.
A notable exception to this trend is the game Indika, which tackles complex themes and issues in its narrative, blurring the lines between game and story even further. Available on PC, PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, this surreal and thought-provoking experience offers a compelling argument for why TV shows can learn from video games.
Ultimately, there's still much to be gained by embracing both the excitement of video games and the more cerebral aspects of storytelling.