An Animated Feast for Adult Gamers
Hey there, fellow gamers! Let’s take a break from talking about the latest gaming releases and dive into the world of animation. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Animation is often seen as something just for kids, right? Well, think again! This year, we’ve been treated to some absolutely mind-blowing animated projects that are an absolute feast for the eyes. From “Puss in Boots” to “Across the Spider-Verse” to “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” these back-to-back bangers are pushing the medium forward in ways we’ve never seen before.
But here’s the exciting part: these animated gems aren’t just for kids. Nope, they’re perfect for us adults too. And I’m not just talking about the usual animation that has a little something for everyone. I’m talking about shows specifically made for adults, with themes and stories that resonate with us on a deeper level.
Take, for example, the continuation of the children’s animated series Adventure Time, called “Fionna and Cake.” This show is quite literally a treat for adults, despite its origins in a kids’ show. Can you believe it? Finally, we have an animated series that speaks directly to us, tackling current events and reflecting our own stylistic tastes. It’s like finding a hidden treasure in a game, only this time, it’s on our screens.
Adventure Time: Growing Up with Finn and Friends
Adventure Time started 13 years ago, and in that time, both its protagonist Finn and myself have grown up a lot. Watching through “Fionna and Cake,” which features a range of different Finns, feels like a comforting journey. It’s like playing a game where you see your own character evolve and face challenges that mirror your own experiences. It’s a beautiful reminder of how far we’ve come and how animation can capture the essence of our lives.
Scavengers Reign: A Visual Masterpiece
Now, let’s talk about “Scavengers Reign.” This show, based on a short film from 2016, takes us to an alien planet where characters crash-land and fight to survive. And let me tell you, it’s an absolute visual masterpiece. The alien designs are so realistic yet strange, and their behaviors are surprisingly believable. If you’ve played the stunning game “Sable” or appreciate the captivating works of French artist Moebius, you’ll be just as enraptured with “Scavengers Reign.” It’s like stepping into a breathtakingly immersive gaming world, where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to transport you to another dimension.
Animation on a Precarious Tightrope
Now, here’s where things get a bit tricky. Both “Fionna and Cake” and “Scavengers Reign” come from Max, formerly HBO Max, a US-only streaming service. And unfortunately, this service has gone through some major changes due to a Warner Bros. and Discovery merger. As a result, numerous animated series have been removed from the streaming service or simply canceled. It’s like facing unexpected challenges in a game, where your progress can be wiped out in an instant.
An Uncertain Future for Animation
But it’s not just the streaming service drama that poses a threat to adult animation. Many animated series aren’t covered by the Writers Guild of America, which means the recent successes gained from strikes won’t necessarily benefit animation writers. Just like how players face tough battles and obstacles in games, the animation industry and its creators face job insecurity and poor contracts that can hinder the creation of projects we love.
A Glimmer of Hope
But fear not, fellow gamers! There’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Next year, the Animation Guild’s contract with the big studios will expire, which means there’s a possibility of more strikes in 2024 if concessions aren’t made. And if we’ve learned anything from the writer’s strike, it’s that change is possible. Adult animation has a bright future, and shows like “Fionna and Cake” and “Scavengers Reign” are proof of that. We just need those at the top to stop getting in the way, just like in a game where you need to defeat the final boss to save the day.
In Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Adult Animation
So, my fellow gamers, let’s embrace the power of adult animation. Let’s celebrate shows like “Fionna and Cake” and “Scavengers Reign” that push the boundaries of what animation can be. Let’s support the creators and demand better contracts and job security for those in the animation industry. Together, we can ensure that the world of adult animation continues to thrive, just like our favorite gaming franchises. It’s time to level up and make a difference.