Like many other historical turning points, the pandemic has altered our concept of what constitutes ‘normalcy’. Especially as regards the consumption of video content, whether on social media or on the big screen - or the range of smaller screens that many of us use to enjoy streaming services like Netflix, HBO, and so forth.
Of course, you recall how TikTok seemed to leap out of nowhere and reinvent the way social media video content was produced. Its emphasis on short-form video content has become so popular that other apps have essentially "Jacked its entire flow" and imitated it on their own platforms.
Spurred by the same immense demand for content, and the dangers associated with public gatherings in the heat of the pandemic, film studios, and production companies needed a new way to deliver hours of content to a worldwide market under house arrest.
Cue the Streaming Wars
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/streaming-wars-the-fight-for-viewers/?embedable=true
Many agree with this statement by legendary film director Martin Scorsese -
“the art of cinema is being systematically devalued, sidelined, demeaned, and reduced to its lowest common denominator” by the streaming system which sees film “content”
Others believe that cinemas' staunch competition from streaming services is a fleeting anomaly. Whatever side of the divide you’re on, the fact remains, the streaming wars are ongoing and they don’t look to be slowing down.
You would imagine that the goal of any streaming service, as the content contest looms, is to keep more users on their platform for longer. A feat that can only be achieved by a mix of quantity and quality. I.e not just a lot of things to watch, but a lot of good things to watch.
Now, if you fell in love with Daenerys Targaryen, found yourself rooting for Anthony Soprano, or blushed anytime Don Draper came on screen, you will agree that HBO has never had a content quality problem. And with a mix of classics and exciting new shows on their stand-alone streaming service, they look set to continue this trend - perhaps with some unusual ventures…
Then Came The Last of Us
According to me, The Last of Us is one of the best games ever made. The Long list of awards that the Naughty dog gaming title has accumulated since its release in June 2013, agrees with me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2Ebc_OFeug?embedable=true
The action-adventure game is set in a post-apocalyptic United States, where a majority of the population has been infected by a mutated fungus. In the first title, you control a smuggler named Joel as he navigates a maze of cannibalistic creatures and hostile human camps/settlements, in order to get a teenage girl, Elle, to safety.
Someone at HBO must’ve enjoyed exploring the beautiful and challenging story of Joel and Elle as much as I did because the gaming title is coming to a screen near you - or in your hand or on your desk or on your wall.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBRRDpQ0yc0?embedable=true
On September 26, 2022, HBO released a teaser trailer for a TV adaption of the clicker-infested world of The Last of Us. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey.
This is the second Naughty Dog game to grace our screens in a short time, as Tom-holland Led Uncharted was released in February this year.
That said, I can’t wait to see what HBO does with a story that’s already crazy exciting.
Films/TV Shows that would make Great Games
The Gaming Title to TV Show/Film Pipeline is not one-sided, as many films have beenadapted to playable titles. There’s Marvel’s Spider-man, Star wars, Silent hill, and so forth.
Whether it’s one you take part in or one you’re carried through, the goal of games and films is often to take you on an entertaining journey.
As such, I want to make a case for some Films and TV shows that’d make really enjoyable games.
-
Game of Thrones - I’ll admit, this one is pretty obvious. But it bears mentioning. With dragons, wars, and a gripping storyline, gamers around the world (if they share my enthusiasm) will froth at the mouth, for the opportunity to control Jon Snow or The Dragon queen herself in a quest for honor, the 7 kingdoms, or just plain carnage.
A few weeks ago, a Youtube channel called Teaserplay released a concept trailer for what a GOT game could look like using Unreal Engine 5.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWBNHlEWoHU?embedable=true
-
Inception - This might be a bit controversial, but hear me out. Nolan’s chaotic and, often-times, confusing brainchild is replete with potentially exciting game mechanics. I don’t want to say too much and give the story’s plot away. But, If you find the idea of controlling a thief that steals corporate secrets with dream-sharing technology (in a dream world that defies physics) interesting, then you’d definitely agree with me.
-
Vikings - This is definitely a no-brainer. Ragnar Lothbrok, a legendary Norse Hero, is a farmer that finds his way to the throne. He is then faced with the responsibility of war, exploration, and leadership, alongside a family that’s just as ferocious as he is.
Final Thoughts
I stopped my list at 3, as it is mostly wishful thinking, but it is fun to dream and hope and speculate. So Join me in the comments and share your list of 3 films that you think would make great games. Also, let me know if you’re excited about The Last of Us coming to HBO.