When Video Games Steal the Spotlight in Your Favourite TV Shows
I’m excited to share the second episode of the Fanavard podcast with you as a blog post.
Today, we’re diving into something really fun: those moments in popular TV shows when a video game pops up and steals the scene! Even if you’re not a hardcore gamer, I think you’ll find these intersections between gaming and television fascinating.
Gaming Moments That Steal the Show
Have you ever noticed when a character in a movie or TV series starts playing a game, and suddenly that game becomes the focal point of the scene — or even the entire episode? Let’s explore some memorable instances where video games took centre stage in our favourite shows.
House of Cards: When Frank Underwood Plays Monument Valley
Let’s start with ”House of Cards” and one of the most intriguing fictional presidents on TV: Frank Underwood, played by Kevin Spacey.
You’d expect a power-hungry character like Frank to spend his downtime rowing on a machine, playing chess, or reading Machiavelli. But in Season 3, Episode 3, we see Frank deeply engrossed in the mobile game Monument Valley.
Monument Valley is a beautifully crafted puzzle game where you guide a silent princess named Ida through mazes of optical illusions and impossible objects. The game is renowned for its stunning graphics and serene atmosphere.
I have to admit, I’m not much of a gamer, but this one hooked me instantly. I played both versions back-to-back! The game’s core idea is about finding solutions from unexpected perspectives, much like Frank Underwood’s unconventional tactics in the political landscape of the show.
After “Monument Valley” was featured in “House of Cards,” its popularity soared, leading to a significant spike in downloads. Not bad for a game that’s more like an interactive piece of art!
If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend it. And here’s some good news: the third instalment is set to release by the end of this year on Netflix. Yes, Netflix is branching into gaming, so don’t be surprised if their shows start featuring more of their own games.
Breaking Bad: Jesse Pinkman Escapes into Rage
Imagine being ”Jesse Pinkman” from ”Breaking Bad”, a character deeply entrenched in a world of crime and chaos. How do you cope with all that stress and anxiety? Immersing yourself in an even more chaotic virtual world might be one way.
In Season 4, Episode 7, we find Jesse playing a game called Rage. This first-person shooter is set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, where players battle mutants and bandits in a lawless environment. The game’s gritty and desolate setting mirrors the harsh realities Jesse faces in his own life.
Interestingly, the game Rage was officially released two months after this episode aired. The version Jesse plays was a special edition created specifically for “Breaking Bad.” Also, in the scene, Jesse uses a gun-shaped controller to play, which isn’t how the game is actually played. This creative liberty was likely taken to dramatize the scene and highlight Jesse’s internal turmoil.
The Office: Team Bonding Over Call of Duty
Moving on to ”The Office”, the mockumentary-style sitcom that many of us love. In Season 2, Episode 22, the Dunder Mifflin staff engage in some team bonding — or perhaps team rivalry — by playing ”Call of Duty” during work hours.
The scene is both hilarious and relatable for anyone who’s tried to sneak in some game time at the office. Characters like Jim and Dwight showcase their competitive sides, adding another layer of humour to the show.
This episode was inspired by real-life events. During the production of Season 2, the cast and crew were genuinely obsessed with playing Call of Duty during breaks. The producers had installed the game on the writers’ computers, intending it as a fun distraction, but it turned into daily competitive matches. Their enthusiasm eventually led to the game being featured in the show.
The Big Bang Theory: A Celebration of Geek Culture
Last but certainly not least, ”The Big Bang Theory” is a treasure trove of gaming references. The show isn’t just about a group of quirky scientists navigating social situations; it’s also a celebration of geek culture, and gaming plays a significant role.
Characters like Sheldon, Leonard, Howard, and Raj are not only physicists but also avid gamers. Throughout the series, they play over 20 different video games, including classics like Halo, Super Mario Bros., World of Warcraft, and Wii Sports.
Sheldon, in particular, approaches gaming with almost religious fervour. He meticulously plans gaming sessions, deciding everything from seating arrangements to snack selections. His dedication highlights how gaming is more than just a hobby for these characters — it’s an integral part of their lives.
The show doesn’t stop at video games; it also features a variety of board games and card games, further emphasising the characters’ deep-rooted connection to gaming culture.
Why Do These Moments Matter?
These gaming moments do more than just entertain; they add depth to characters and make them more relatable. They can also influence real-world trends. For example, when Monument Valley appeared in House of Cards, it led to a surge in the game’s popularity.
Moreover, these scenes reflect the growing integration of gaming into mainstream culture. What was once considered a niche interest is now a common pastime depicted in some of the most popular TV shows.
It’s fascinating to see how video games weave into the narratives of our favourite TV shows, offering insights into characters and even impacting real-world gaming trends.
I hope you enjoyed this look into the moments when video games steal the spotlight on television. Whether you’re a gamer or just someone who enjoys good storytelling, these intersections between gaming and TV offer something for everyone.
You can listen to this episode in Persian through the following links: Spotify, Castbox, Apple Podcast
