When it comes to the modern game shows of major television networks, one noticeable trend has been the implementation of an advertisable product within the design or gameplay of a show. Now, game publisher Konami has capitalized on that trend by partnering with NBCUniversal and their streaming servicePeacockto create an obstacle course game show based on the arcade classicFrogger, with a trailer releasing to announce its September premiere.
The firstFroggergame was released in 1981 and followed the eponymous frog and its struggle to cross a series of dangerous passageways, including roads bustling with traffic and rivers teeming with alligators and floating logs. Konami has kept the franchise alive over time by developing many sequels, spin-offs, remakes, and remasters ofFrogger. Today,Froggeris considered to rank among arcade games likePac-Man,Galaga,Donkey Kong, andSpace Invadersas one of the most importantclassic arcade games from the ’80s.
RELATED:The Action Movie Stars That Inspired Metal Gear’s Protagonists
The NBC game show, concisely titledFrogger, is hosted by Kyle Brandt and Damon Wayans, Jr. and tasks its players with leaping onto platforms and avoiding obstacles to prevent themselves from falling into a pool of water. The obstacles and platforms—recognizable as the cars, alligators, and logs from the original game—are made with a retro aesthetic that uniquely captures the design of the old arcade games. The first season is thirteen episodes long, presumably culminating in the champion winning a $100,000 grand prize.
Konami has been adventurous with its numerous properties and licensing opportunities as of late. The company gave a green light forthe NetflixCastlevaniaseries(which continues to be popular among animation fans) and it allowed Solid Snake, Simon Belmont, and Bomberman to appear inSuper Smash Bros. Ultimate. In addition, Konami is also working with Sony Pictures andKong: Skull Islanddirector Jordan Vogt-Roberts on the development of aMetal Gear Solidlive-action film.
The decision by Konami and NBC tocreate aFroggergame showwill likely be decried by many voices as unnecessary and overtly capitalistic in nature. But if there is any silver lining to the show and its promotion, it is undoubtedly the continued acceptance of video games and their history as a legitimate source of joy, recreation, and inspiration by society at large.
