MrBeast’s highly anticipated sports reality show, Beast Video Games, has finally premiered on Amazon Prime. The first episode of the 10-part series, which dropped today, marks the YouTube star’s grand entry into television. This show is part of a $100 million deal between MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, and Amazon.
A High-Stakes Competition
In Beast Video Games, 1,000 contestants compete for a whopping $5 million prize, billed as “the biggest in entertainment history.” The show has already drawn comparisons to the globally popular Squid Game, with its high-stakes nature and intense competition setting the stage for thrilling moments.
Mixed Reviews: A Disappointing Start
Despite the grand production and high stakes, the show has not received the warm reception many expected. Early reactions have been largely underwhelming, with critics labeling the series as derivative, obnoxious, and surprisingly small-scale given its substantial budget. The initial episode, though full of hype, has left many fans disappointed, raising concerns about the show’s future trajectory.
Beast Games is #1 in the US and I cannot express how grateful I am for all of the love and support! I, and countless talented people really put so much love and passion into it, and seeing everyone’s reactions has been amazing!
— MrBeast (@MrBeast) December 20, 2024
Thanks guys! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ZTcZlXUhCS
A Shift from YouTube to Television
Known for his viral YouTube videos, MrBeast has taken his knack for viral content and transformed it into a full-fledged reality show. His YouTube channel is famous for its fast-paced videos featuring absurd stunts and massive cash prizes. However, Beast Video Games has struggled to capture the same charm and attraction that made MrBeast an online phenomenon.
The format of Beast Video Games shares similarities with MrBeast’s previous YouTube challenges, like “Every Country On Earth Fights For $250,000” and “100 Kids vs. 100 Adults For $500,000.” In these challenges, contestants endure difficult obstacles with little chance of success while MrBeast provides loud commentary. The challenge-driven format, however, is criticized for lacking the flair that made his YouTube videos stand out.
Squid Game Inspiration: A Double-Edged Sword
The show’s heavy borrowing from Squid Game has also caught viewers' attention. Contestants in Beast Video Games wear numbered uniforms, and the set design features elements reminiscent of the popular series, such as iconic bunk beds and hooded staff costumes. While Squid Game became a global sensation for its intense, high-stakes atmosphere, the parallels in Beast Video Games have sparked debate about the show’s originality and creative direction.
Gameplay Highlights: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
In the latest episode, contestants started on 1,000 podiums, each surrounded by large simulated drops. As is typical with MrBeast’s style, players are offered cash bribes to quit the game, creating moral dilemmas that lead to dramatic twists. When a contestant accepts a bribe, their entire row is eliminated, adding an element of strategy to the game.
While these moments were exciting, the repetitive nature of the challenges across episodes has led to diminishing returns. The moral decisions become less impactful with each passing game, as the format starts to feel predictable.
Production and Commercialism: Where the Show Falls Short
Despite the show’s massive budget, the production quality has been criticized for lacking polish. The city built for the show, where contestants reportedly spent 24 hours between episodes, felt underwhelming, and the show skipped over this segment entirely, which left many viewers confused about the narrative choices. These production shortcomings have raised questions about the overall quality of the show.
Furthermore, the prominence of product placement, especially the banners advertising MrBeast’s Feastables on set, has drawn negative attention. Critics argue that a $100 million deal, including such heavy commercialism, detracts from the viewing experience.
Unlike Mr Beast
Although Beast Video Games incorporates elements familiar to MrBeast’s fans, it misses the signature style that made his YouTube videos a success. The quick-paced editing, quirky humor, and personal charm that have defined his viral content are largely absent from the show. Without these elements, Beast Video Games struggles to evoke the same excitement and engagement that MrBeast’s online presence commands.
The Road Ahead: Can the Show Recover?
The debut of Beast Video Games has sparked a mix of intrigue and disappointment. With eight episodes remaining, it remains to be seen whether MrBeast can elevate the series and bring back the magic that has made him one of the most successful digital creators in the world. Fans are hopeful that the upcoming episodes will offer a stronger balance of innovation and entertainment, and that the show will ultimately deliver on its immense potential.
