Games Beyond the Classics: Literature Needs an Upgrade
Gone are the days when Monopoly, Uno, and Scrabble were the only gaming choices gracing the pages of our favorite books. The board game hobby has exploded in recent years, with hundreds if not thousands of innovative and exciting titles hitting the shelves. Yet, when it comes to literary representations of game nights, authors often seem stuck in a time warp, referencing the same tired classics over and over again.
Stuck in the Past: A Case of Literary Uno-vision
It's not uncommon to pick up a contemporary novel and find characters gathered around a Monopoly board, meticulously buying and trading properties. Or perhaps they're engaged in a heated game of Clue, desperately searching for clues to expose the mansion's murderer. While these classics hold a special place in our hearts, their repeated appearances can feel stale and uninspired.
Take, for example, "Uno, Hearts, and something called Quiddler" from Emily Henry's delightful romantic comedy People We Meet on Vacation. The book features two writers, Alex (an English teacher who writes short stories) and Poppy (a blogger). Surely, a game like Quiddler, a fast-paced wordplay game reminiscent of Scrabble, would be right up their alley. Yet this vague mention, a mere footnote in the narrative, could have been a chance to highlight the unique and more modern game. Imagine if the author had described them "battling wits in a Scrabble-like game called Quiddler," instantly piquing the reader's interest and showcasing the game's appeal.
This isn't an attack on specific authors, but rather a call for broader awareness. Even mentioning a lesser-known game like Quiddler is a commendable step towards diversifying board game references. However, the prevalence of generic descriptions like "something called" reflects a missed opportunity to truly integrate board games into the story.
While we can certainly appreciate the nostalgia evoked by classics, it's time for authors to venture beyond the well-trodden path and discover the vibrant world of modern board games.
Crazy Stupid Love: A Call to Action
Remember the iconic scene in Crazy Stupid Love where Ryan Gosling's character urges Cal (Steve Carell) to "be better than the Gap! Be better than the Gap, say it!" This impassioned plea for self-improvement can easily be applied to the realm of literary board game references. Authors, it's time to be better than the classics! Embrace the vast and ever-evolving landscape of board games.
Think of the possibilities! Imagine a thrilling mystery novel where a group of amateur sleuths uses deduction skills honed on cooperative games like Blood in the Clocktower to crack a real-life case. Or picture a heartwarming family drama centered around a family rediscovering their connection through laughter and friendly competition over a game of Azul. The possibilities are endless, and the potential to enrich our stories with fresh, engaging elements is undeniable. Well, maybe not that far, but at least mentioning more than the classics, please!
Beyond the Big Names: Introducing Hidden Gems
Of course, acknowledging the classics isn't a bad thing. They're timeless for a reason! But let's not stop there. Let's introduce readers to the hidden gems of the board game world. Let's introduce them to the innovative titles that are pushing the boundaries of design and gameplay. Mentioning a lesser-known game in a novel can add a touch of holy shit! I know that game, let me bring it to the table today. At least, that's what happened to me while reading Role Model. The book mentions Catan and Ticket to Ride, and for the first time in a very long time, I played Catan.
The Secret Sauce: Board Games as Catalysts for Connection
For many of us, board games have become more than just a way to pass the time. They're a source of connection, laughter, and shared experiences. They bring families and friends together, so it's only natural that we want to see these beloved games reflected in the stories we read and the pop culture we consume.
So, dear authors and creators, we implore you: Push the boundaries. Embrace the board game revolution. Let's fill our bookshelves and screens with references to the exciting, diverse, and ever-evolving world of board games.
Let's cross our fingers and raise a glass (or a meeple) to a future where literary game nights are as fresh and innovative as the games themselves!
Who knows, maybe one day . . .
Do you have any book recommendations? Or have you read a book that mentions a modern game?
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