From final boss battles to the dangers of open-world bloat, TV and film can learn a lot from video games

January 10, 2026

TL;DR

Stranger Things' finale, like many contemporary shows and films, exhibits characteristics of a video game, such as a 'final boss battle' and pacing reminiscent of games like Resident Evil.
The relationship between video games, TV, and film is now reciprocal, with older generations of gamers influencing creative decisions and adaptations becoming less terrible.
Movies like Edge of Tomorrow, Mad Max: Fury Road, and John Wick 4 are described as having video game-like qualities, often as a compliment.
The author criticizes Stranger Things for its bloat, excessive characters, and pacing issues, comparing it unfavorably to an overlong open-world game.
The decline in licensed video game tie-ins for movies and TV shows is attributed to rising development costs and the fact that TV shows now often feel like games themselves.
The game Indika is highlighted for its surreal narrative, exploration of complex themes, and subversion of typical gamer expectations.
Recent data indicates stagnation at the top of the video game market, with older titles dominating playtime, leading publishers to struggle with creating successful live-service games.
David Rosen, co-founder of Sega, passed away at 95.
Hollow Knight: Silksong won a "Sit Back and Relax" award at Steam's awards.

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