Maybe It’s Just Me: I Like the ‘New’ Game

I’m still mad that when UPN died, the CW chose The Game and whatever that bootlegged show with Duane Martin & LisaRaye was called instead of Half & Half. Yes, I still want to know if Spencer and Mona became the loving couple I knew they could be. Heck, I’m still bitter that the CW thinks they’re better off ratings-wise with their current line-up. Seriously?

Anyway…

I’ve actually never been a huge fan of Derwin and Girl, Melanie, so maybe that’s why I reacted differently to the departure of Tia and Pooch.

I’m glad. 

It’s like a fresh start to a cycle of drama and egotistical behavior being rehashed and recycled over and over again. Honestly, they had progressed so far away from their original characters, dreams and goals (in a bad way) that for me, it didn’t make common sense. I could go on and on about how their characters–and Miss Tasha Mack–had devolved.

So after a friend encouraged me to give the show another try, I checked it out. And I actually liked it–like I want to watch it.

I’ve seen a lot of comments from fans that they want the previous main characters to return (as if TV isn’t a business) and I can imagine what that feels likes. Perhaps, the safest way to transition would have been for BET to create a spin-off. Too late for that now.

I will say the main thing that excites me about the ‘new’ iteration of The Game, is the new relationship of the featured characters. I hope they don’t rush it. So far, they’re going a little too fast. Maybe it’s the Scandal-effect?

GREAT television is built upon the journey of great relationships. Slow it down BET, please. It’s so obvious you want them to be together and essentially replace your previous main characters. However, have you noticed how MOST of your fan-base doesn’t want that to happen? Let them grow, love, hate, fail, succeed at their own pace. 

The blueprint has been laid. TV viewers have rooted for couples to get together forever–it’s a tried and true technique. The only thing is you can’t force it on us. Show us the chemistry and tension and trust me, our hope for things to work out will come. In fact, we might hang around for a few seasons based purely on this hope.

In case you need a better explanation, here are some of my favorite TV relationships that required faithful viewership.

Dwayne Wayne & Whitley Gilbert  – Yes, their last names are required. This unlikely duo seemed doomed from the start, but you know what, I held out hope for season after season. I was quite happy that Dwayne Wayne lost interest in Denise–that was just boring! Dwayne and Whitley, though? The hilarious and realistic scenarios this couple overcame kept me entertained and in love with A Different World.

Jim & Pam - It began the moment he knew exactly the flavor of yogurt she loved, even though she was engaged. Between awkward confessions of love, moves, other loves, hilarious weddings and so many moments, I still start cheesing when I see them on-camera. I’m still in denial that after this season, I won’t get to see what happens next for this extra – ORDINARY couple.

Spencer & Mona - Well you already know how I feel. And I don’t know how things turned out. I think it would have been awesome. Ugh.

Kyle & Max - Talk about love & hate from the get-go. There was nothing like the banter between these two. The tension only grew as they denied the connection and attraction we all saw. It was exciting to see them fight the force and give into it . There was never a doubt in my mind that these two were made for each other. Yet, I enjoyed watching them discover that fact.

William & Joan - Girlfriends is another show that I’d hoped for a better end, but yeah. I didn’t have much hope for William and Joan transitioning from friends–in fact two very compatible friends–to a relationship. They just didn’t have that extra umph that takes you beyond a platonic relationship. And yet, they tried. At times awkward, I still enjoyed their {failed} relationship because it was authentic.

Amy & Sheldon – The ability of the Big Bang Theory to translate nerdiness and awkwardness in all levels of life is hilarious and brilliant. Enough said.

Jay & Tamiko…or Austin – Roomie.Lover.Friends is by far one of my favorite web shows out there. When I really think about it, the series is pretty much all about the beginning, continuance and ending of relationships. I’m not sure what will happen and I’m actually on the fence about who I think Tamiko should be with, so you know what? I keep watching and waiting for season 2!

I could list couple after couple that I have rooted for, cried with, laughed about, etc. To me that’s what makes television interesting–that ability to connect with the characters on an emotional level because we all need and want a little love.

Who are some of your favorite TV couples?

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