The Gamers is a web series produced by Zombie Orpheus Entertainment that follows a group of gamers as they play a tabletop role-playing game called The Adventure Game. The show premiered in 2002 and has since become a cult hit among gamers and fans of comedy and fantasy.
The series stars Christian Doyle as Lodge, the game master, and Trin Miller as Joanna, one of the players. The other players are Mark (Scott C. Brown), Leo (Brian Lewis), and Joanna's boyfriend, Gary (Nathan Rice).
Throughout the series, the group navigates the complexities of the game while also dealing with their own personal dramas and conflicts. For example, in the first season, Joanna and Gary are having relationship issues, while Mark is dealing with his own insecurities.
One of the unique aspects of the series is the way it incorporates both live-action footage of the players and their characters, as well as animated segments that depict the fantasy world of The Adventure Game. The animation is done in a fun, cartoony style that adds to the comedic tone of the show.
Another standout element of The Gamers is the way it pokes fun at the stereotypes and cliches of the gaming community. The characters frequently argue about the minutiae of the game rules, while also dealing with the social awkwardness and anxiety that can come with being a nerd. However, the show never feels mean-spirited, and instead celebrates the joy and camaraderie that comes with gaming.
While The Gamers is primarily a comedy, it also contains some surprisingly emotional moments. In particular, the second season deals with some heavy themes related to grief and loss. Without spoiling anything, the season finale is a masterclass in how to balance humor and heartbreak in a single episode.
Overall, The Gamers is a must-watch for anyone who loves gaming or comedy. The show has a devoted fan base and has inspired several sequels, spin-offs, and even a feature-length movie. If you're looking for a fun, lighthearted series that celebrates the weird and wonderful world of tabletop gaming, look no further than The Gamers.
The Gamers is a series that ran for 2 seasons (6 episodes) between and on Zombie Orpheus Entertainment
