Yuzuko is a single mom trying to find happiness with her girlfriend Sakura. Their world comes crashing down around them when they are forced to take part in the controversial reality show, Game of Mass Destruction. So what is this game all about? “Be prepared to be amazed, shocked, and thrilled by pure uncensored and real action!” The show pits 20 contestants against one another and a cadre of flesh eating robots with bonus points added for sexual encounters. The prize? A billion dollars! Sound over the top? It totally is, but so is the villainous Sia Banks, the mastermind behind the show. Yuzuko is stunned when she finds that most of the competitors are friends, acquaintances or personal idols. But she has to play by the rules or her hometown will be bombed and destroyed, including her beloved son.
Battle Royale meets Westworld in this high-energy dystopian thriller by Chloe Gilholy. Game of Mass Destruction takes place in 2062, a future not too far away. Social issues, such as which restrooms transgendered people use, immigration, the proliferation of fake news, climate change, and a reality tv show with the power to shape not only entertainment, but also the scientific world, are topical and relevant but a bit obvious in the delivery. Flashy scenes include flesh-eating robots, meddling mechanical monkeys, a dangerous tv show creator, and advertising that successfully manipulates the unsuspecting masses. Proving to be outrageous and almost comedic in their outlandishness, these scenes demonstrate that the story can’t be taken too seriously. The narrative is awkward at times and has numerous imperfections, making this otherwise fun and raucous story difficult to fully enjoy. If you are looking for an imaginative depravity-filled story colored with futuristic nuances, but with some thoughtful moments of humanity tossed in for good measure, you will love Game of Mass Destruction by Chloe Gilholy.
