One of the things I’ve liked most about the new Fallout show (don’t worry, no spoilers here) is that the narrative replicates one of the best elements of the narratives from the games, that being escalation. The Fallout games lead the player from fighting simple pests like rats, geckos, or roaches to solving problems for small local towns, to deciding the fates of nations and institutions. This escalation in consequences is accompanied by the escalation of tension and stakes, mirrors the player character’s growing abilities and equipment, and culminates in a dramatic set piece.
And so it was, if you’ll permit me my trademarked slightly-tortured metaphor, with today’s 5-4 Mariners win over the Houston Astros.