Video Game Parodies

Ever wonder what would happen if Mario were placed in the real world? Or if Sonic The Hedgehog suddenly got old and couldn't run that fast anymore? So have other Nintendo and Sega enthusiasts. Thus, video game parodies were born.

Why Watch Video Game Parodies?

Surely, you have a lot of entertainment options these days. In addition to playing with your Wii or fragging alien invaders in Resistance: Fall of Man for the PS3, you've also got a bevy of television shows to watch and movies to enjoy. So, why would you want to bother with some amateur creations like how most web-based video game spoofs are?

Well, one of the key differences between an official release and one created by a fan is the very fact that fans don't have to worry about public image or national censors. They can talk about whatever they like. As a result, they are open to a lot more options than the official developers. Directors like Uwe Boll have created movies based on video games, but the fan response has typically not been that great. Video game parodies, particularly the extra funny ones, speak directly to gamers while still appealing to a mainstream audience.

If you grew up jumping on goombas or running away from ghosts in Pac-Man, then the nostalgic value of many video game parodies may be for you as well. Want a good laugh? Look no further.

Flash-Based Animation

Typically, most video game spoof videos that you find on the Internet will be Flash-based animations. The creators get their hands on some video game sprites and then they implement them in creative ways. Flash is an excellent platform for showing old school 80s video games because the graphics weren't nearly as detailed as they are today. Animation is easier to do, because creators don't need to worry about accurate lighting effects or shadows. The focus is on the content and the humor.

Sometimes, parodies based on video games will be live action. They may not always be funny and they are usually filmed using low budget means. All the creative people need is a handheld camcorder, some colorful costumes and an interesting script. There is no shortage of live action antics inspired by video games on YouTube.

Websites with Animations and Videos

Video game spoofs and parodies are everywhere, especially now that video games have been opened up to the traditional non-gamer with the Nintendo Wii. Kick it old school on the Virtual Console and then soak in the videos that you can find on these five sites:

• Newgrounds.com features videos inspired by Castlevania, Chrono Trigger, Counter-Strike, Double Dragon, Earthbound and more. The videos are all Flash-based and make extensive use of video game sprites.
• Flashportal has new funny movies uploaded on a regular basis, including those with Link from the Legend of Zelda, Mega Man, and even a movie that they call "Pong Not Just A Game". The pop-up ads on this site can get annoying, however.
• Treehugger has a post that shows some PhotoShopped video game art, particularly those for covers that never quite made it print. Ever wonder what a racing game would be like with a slow, electric car? Wonder no longer.
• Flash Cartoons likes keeping things funny and so do we. From The Koopa Projects to What about BOB, they have no trouble walking the fine line between what is tasteful and what is controversial.
• Screw Attack is a blog that is updated daily with all sorts of funny stuff, and not just video game spoofs. With weekly features like Toilet Tuesdays, you can be sure to get a kick out of this Internet destination.