Ever since the days of Newgrounds.com, politically vocal video games have been missing from the industry, but this is about to change with the release of Tea Party Zombies Must Die.
Named for the libertarian political group it parodies, Tea Party Zombies Must Die charges players to confront the impending threat of zombified Tea Party members. Intentionally crass and to-the-point, the shooter includes ghoulish renditions of news figures like Newt Gingrich and Glenn Beck as well as politicians including congresswoman Michelle Bachman and Sarah Palin. Needless to say, it caused a huge uproar among conservatives who viewed the game as violent, irresponsible and potentially dangerous.
Game creator Jason Oda explains that the game was merely a personal project although, judging from the eerily positive audience reaction, it's likely we'll see more video gamers masquerading as political pundits.
Political Console Gaming
Tea Party Zombies Must Die Stirs up a Bureaucratic Circus
Trend Themes
1. Political Video Games - The development of politically vocal video games presents an opportunity for game developers to reach a new audience and engage players in current events and social issues.
2. Controversial Gaming Content - The creation of video games with provocative or contentious themes creates the space for brands and creators to garner attention and spark discussion regarding political opinions.
3. Video Game Activism - The emergence of political video games may create opportunities for activists to rally allies and engage supporters in opposition to opposing opinions or beliefs.
Industry Implications
1. Video Game Development - As politically vocal video games gain traction, video game developers need to establish themselves as reliable and important contributors to the political discourse through well-crafted games on social or political issues.
2. Political Entertainment - Developing video games with a political voice presents an opportunity for entertainment agencies and creators to reach and engage a politically-minded audience.
3. Social Media Marketing - The controversy surrounding politically vocal video games creates an opportunity for businesses to harness the power of viral online marketing campaigns to promote games and establish a brand or product.