Video games and books have long been individual pillars of entertainment in their own right, each having its approach towards story. As gaming grows older and tackles increasingly sophisticated storylines, it can no longer ignore the influence of literary themes. Now, from expansive open world quests to the random unpredictability of internet slots, the fingerprints of great literature can influence how gamers interact with what they see on screen.

The Literary Turn in Game Design

Early video games were mechanical. Pong and Space Invaders had little in the way of narrative. Two decades ago, though, things changed. Games like The Last of Us, Red Dead Redemption 2 and Disco Elysium do not just provide fascinating gameplay but storylines based on conflict, tragedy, redemption and philosophy. These are all ingredients common to many Western literary classics.

Game designers increasingly borrow literary models—the three-act structure, hero’s journey, and unreliable narration—to build richly immersive tales. These models inform players and imbue choice and experience with meaning. Games are transformed from mere entertainment into intensely personal, transformative experiences that reflect the emotional resonance of classic novels.

Myth and the Hero’s Journey

Literary themes are surprisingly evident even in unanticipated niches in gaming, for instance, in online slots and casino games. More games are being developed that use themes from mythology and folk tales to reach back into some of the oldest forms of narrative. Some have even designed narrative paths for slots where players progress through chapters or levels based on results.

Consider some of those immersive themes available on the king casino, none other than Casino Kings, in which slots based on mythology transport players into ancient worlds, mirroring Joseph Campbell’s monomyth structure. The player starts as a beginner, shepherded through by symbols and rewards, confronting challenges in between, ending in a narrative “climax” in bonus features or jackpots. Storytelling in its simplest form, yes.

Shakespeare in the Joystick

One of the most often adapted literary themes in games today is tragedy in a Shakespearean vein. Games such as Bioshock Infinite or Spec Ops: The Line make players make impossible choices and often reap bitter repercussions, no matter what choice they make. These games have in common with Shakespearean heroes—they are flawed, driven by ambition or guilt, spiralling in circles they can’t escape.

This tragic framework makes for powerful game storytelling, highlighting the limits of control in interactive media. Players might think they’re in charge, but the story—much like fate in a Shakespearean play—inevitably reasserts itself.

Dystopia and Social Commentary

Like George Orwell or Aldous Huxley, game designers employ dystopian worlds to comment on today. Deus Ex, Papers, Please and Detroit: Become Human place players inside oppressive systems in which independence is called into question and right and wrong are murky. These games don’t just mimic suffering; they make people think.

What distinguishes games in this context is player agency. Readers of 1984 can sympathise with Winston Smith’s struggles. Still, players of Papers, Please have to choose themselves if they are going to bar a mother from entry into an imaginary country because her documents are incomplete and lack one particular stamp. These make passive viewers active ethical agents—and possibly enrich the literary merit of the experience.

Character Archetypes and Inner Conflict

Literature has always depended on archetypes—the reluctant hero, the sage mentor, the tragic villain—to create interesting characters. Games have taken and adapted these roles. Characters in games such as Kratos in God of War or Geralt in The Witcher games have highly multidimensional and multilayered personalities. These characters are not avatars; they are fleshed out by having backstories, flaws and emotional depth in common with literary characters such as Odysseus or Heathcliff.

Also, since these games involve making choices that influence what happens, they can deliver a more intense representation of internal conflict. Games such as Life is Strange or Heavy Rain involve players in psychological conflicts that challenge their values and appraisals. The outcome? Stories told not just through words but through living.

The Future of Literary Gaming

The border between book and game becomes increasingly blurred as technology becomes increasingly sophisticated. With growing AI-based dialogue capabilities, open-world realism and interactive narrative capabilities, games may become one of the most significant means of conveying a story in the 21st century.

Writers and game developers are already co-producing projects investigating how prose can blend in with gameplay. Bestselling books adapted into games or short stories embedded entirely within game spaces portend a future where reading and playing are no longer separate experiences.

Fundamentally, gaming does not supplant literature; it frames it. The medium is different—joysticks instead of pages—but the intention is the same: to tell stories about who people are, question assumptions and leave an indelible emotional mark.

Whether it’s a blockbuster RPG or a basic mythology-based slot, literary tradition profoundly influences gaming. As consumers increasingly crave more considered, profound content, the dialogue between books and games can only intensify—and deepen.

To open up 2025, Netflix made the welcomed announcement that Squid Game’s third season would premiere on the all-conquering streaming platform on 27 June. Aside from a brief overview of the season and a picture, that was all fans of the gore-laden Korean drama could go off.

Now, kicking off May and the two months to launch, Netflix has finally revealed the official teaser trailer. Given that the first season reached number one in 94 countries, broke the service’s record as the most-watched series at launch, and then Season 2 also broke debut records, the fanfare around the teaser is understandable.

Perhaps the most surprising thing, out of the context of Netflix’s obsession with cancelling shows with good writing, is that Squid Game Season 3 will be the last. After all, it’s become a pop-culture sensation that’s spread to all corners of entertainment.

The Third Season Won’t be the End of Squid Game

Squid Game was such a huge hit out of the gate that Netflix couldn’t help but make the most of the opportunity. After all, the original season was meant to be a one-off, according to the director. Then, Season 2 was meant to be the last, but they needed more episodes, thus Season 3 is on the way.

Beyond the streaming platform, there was a Squid Game event in the ever-popular Call of Duty game series, and a bunch of pop-up events and merchandise releases. Obviously, there are Funko Pop! Figures, but there was also a pop-up store in Paris in 2021 as well as many Red Light, Green Light events around the world. We’ve also seen a bunch of official Squid Game entertainment products emerge.

We’ve seen a bunch of Squid Game mobile games, but the most prominent recent release has been Squid Game Gganbu. Landing very well among other hit and new slot games, in Gganbu you collect marbles, crack cookies, and spin the deadly wheels in the hope of hitting the jackpot. Along with these games, there was, of course, the reality Squid Game: The Challenge game show that brought Squid Game to life in a much more tame environment.

Squid Game’s Season 3 has been Teased

While only 1:24 long, we get a lot from the Squid Game: Season 3 Official Teaser. Netflix has just swung expectations all over the place, from marching in the main character (Gi-hun) in a neatly-bowed coffin to signing off the trailer with the wails of a baby.

Plus, there are new games on the way. One has the set-up of the round capsule vending machine, which is more commonly associated with tacky little toys, and another is an X and O game. It promises to pick-up right after the crushing cliffhanger that concluded Season 2, but where the brutal tale will ultimately end up is anyone’s guess.

Squid Game is much more than the Gi-hun storyline now, and while Season 3 may be the final of the core story, Netflix is clearly keen on expanding its footprint across entertainment and, potentially, into a spin-off series.

Utah’s dynamic economy, powered by a thriving tech sector, a robust outdoor recreation industry, and a culture of innovation, positions it as a top destination for professionals. Beyond its stunning landscapes, from red rock deserts to snow-capped peaks, and abundant economic opportunities, Utah’s workplace culture is a key draw for attracting and retaining top talent. 

Businesses, from fast-growing Silicon Slopes startups to established firms in Salt Lake City, are focusing on staff well-being with flexible work options, thoughtful benefits, and a genuine approach to satisfaction. 

We will explore for you six ways Utah employers are creating workplaces where people thrive and choose to stay long-term.

Prioritizing Work-Life Balance

Utah’s deep-rooted values of family, community, and personal fulfillment shape its workplace ethos. Employers embrace this by offering flexible schedules, enabling workers to attend school recitals, volunteer locally, or hit the trails for a midday hike in Zion National Park.

Hybrid and remote work arrangements, now a cornerstone post-pandemic, empower employees to seamlessly blend professional and personal responsibilities, enhancing their quality of life.

Leading companies like Adobe and Overstock provide generous paid time off (PTO), encouraging workers to recharge without being stressed about falling behind. Wellness programs are also on the rise, with offerings like subsidized gym memberships, on-site yoga classes, meditation apps, or designated mental health days. 

By valuing employees’ lives outside the office, employers foster deep loyalty, reduce burnout, and create a workplace that feels supportive and human.

Investing in Employee Safety and Support

A safe and caring workplace is essential for retention, and Utah employers are setting a high standard. Beyond meeting OSHA requirements, they provide regular safety training, ergonomic workstations, and accessible mental health resources, including counseling services.

In higher-risk sectors like construction, manufacturing, or logistics, businesses prioritize hazard prevention, rigorous safety audits, and clear guidelines to protect their teams from harm. When workplace injuries occur, employees deserve transparent support and fair treatment.

Resources like a workers’ compensation attorney in Utah guide workers through claims, ensuring they receive rightful benefits to aid recovery. Employers who openly communicate about these options and partner with trusted advocates build trust, demonstrating genuine care for their team’s well-being in challenging times. This commitment strengthens workplace confidence and reinforces a culture of security.

Offering Competitive Benefits Packages

To stand out in a competitive job market, Utah employers craft benefits packages that resonate deeply. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans are standard, but many companies go further with unique perks like fertility support, pet insurance, wellness stipends, or student loan repayment assistance. 

Robust retirement plans with generous employer matching signal a commitment to employees’ long-term financial security. Small businesses, a vital part of Utah’s economy, shine with creativity. Some offer profit-sharing or equity stakes, aligning personal success with company growth. 

Others lean into Utah’s outdoor lifestyle, providing ski pass discounts, access to mountain retreats in Park City, or even company-sponsored camping trips. These tailored benefits make employees feel valued, foster a sense of belonging, and create a workplace that feels uniquely connected to Utah’s vibrant culture.

Fostering Professional Growth

Utah’s ambitious workforce craves opportunities to grow, and employers deliver with robust professional development. Companies provide tuition reimbursement, subscriptions to platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera, and in-house training to sharpen technical and leadership skills. Mentorship programs pair newer hires with seasoned professionals, offering personalized guidance for career advancement and confidence-building.

Domo, Pluralsight, and Lucid Software are some tech-heavy Silicon Slopes firms that host hackathons, technical workshops, and industry summits to promote innovation and collaboration. 

Clear promotion paths, cross-departmental roles, and stretch projects show employees a future with the company. By investing in growth, Utah employers boost engagement, empower their teams, and cultivate a workforce eager to stay and contribute to long-term success.

Building Inclusive and Collaborative Cultures

A sense of belonging is critical for employee happiness, and Utah employers are fostering welcoming workplaces. Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are expanding, with companies hosting cultural parades, forming employee resource groups for underrepresented communities, and providing bias training to ensure respect for all. 

These steps create environments where every employee feels valued and heard. Collaboration thrives in Utah’s workplaces, with open-plan offices, team-building retreats in the Uinta Mountains, and regular feedback sessions sparking creativity and connection. 

Companies like Zions Bank and Intermountain Healthcare champion teamwork, reflecting Utah’s tight-knit community spirit. Employees who feel connected to their colleagues and aligned with their company’s mission are far more likely to stay, building a loyal and cohesive workforce.

Listening to Employee Feedback

The most powerful retention tool in Utah is listening. Employers use annual surveys, open town hall meetings, and regular one-on-one check-ins to understand employee needs and aspirations. 

This input drives meaningful changes, from refining policies to upgrading facilities or addressing workload concerns. Some companies conduct “stay interviews,” asking workers what keeps them engaged, what challenges they face, and how the workplace can improve.

For example, when employees at a Utah-based retailer raised concerns about rigid scheduling, management introduced a flexible system that boosted morale and productivity. By acting on feedback, employers foster trust and show employees their voices shape the workplace. This culture of openness and responsiveness ensures workers feel valued, respected, and committed to their roles, reducing turnover significantly.

Why Utah’s Approach Works

Utah’s unique blend of economic vitality, cultural values, and forward-thinking workplace practices makes it a magnet for talent. Employers recognize that retaining top performers requires more than competitive salaries—it demands a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and inspired. 

By emphasizing work-life balance, safety, meaningful benefits, professional growth, inclusion, and responsiveness, Utah companies create environments that resonate with the state’s community-driven ethos.

For employees, this translates to fulfilling careers in a state that celebrates both professional achievement and personal joy. For employers, it builds a loyal, productive workforce and cements their reputation as top workplaces. As Utah’s economy continues to grow, its unwavering dedication to exceptional workplace culture will ensure it remains a leader in attracting and retaining the brightest talent.

Are you a business owner about to post some job openings? If the answer is yes, we recommend putting a halt on the next step right now; there’s a few things you need to go over first! Mainly, whether or not your business is a great place to work. 

This is the kind of question all business owners should ask themselves from time to time, but it’s much more of a pressing question when you’re actively looking for new employees. 

Maybe you need to fill a role ASAP, after your previous hire left during their trial period? Or maybe you’re trying to grow and scale your business right now, and that’s coinciding with an increased need for manpower? Either way, you’re in need of skilled employees and a team that knows what they’re doing! 

And the best way to ensure you can build such a team? Focus on making your business the best place to work.

Attractive job roles aren’t just about the salary range included in the bottom of the job description. They’re also made from your company background, working policies, workplace culture, and the various benefits available through being your employee. 

These are the things to think about before putting your next hiring campaign into action. Because of that, we’ve listed below a few of the main elements involved in creating a desirable workplace. If you can make sure none are missing from your offerings, you’ll have a much stronger chance of bagging the best talent currently in the job market. 

You Expect Too Much

You’re the expert on your business. You’re the expert on your product. You’re the expert in your field. These are all true statements you should be proud of. However, as the boss, you need to understand how this expertise can influence the expectations you hold for any new employee that comes through the door. 

It’s often said that experts forget what it means to be an expert. Often known as ‘the curse of knowledge’, it’s very easy to forget that what you’re capable of is specific only to you. Any new employee you hire isn’t going to have this same level of knowledge and insight, even when they hold qualifications and expertise in the capacity you’ve hired them for. 

They need to have time to get used to working for you, and keeping up with the specific demands of your business. If they request support, you need to be there to give it to them. This is why probation periods and employee onboarding is so crucial; they’re very unlikely to know how to handle all of this when they first start! 

By letting yourself operate with unchecked expectations, you’re far more likely to reject perfectly good candidates for long term positions. You’re also far more likely to see a high rate of employee turnover. You probably won’t even be aware that this is what’s going on, and that’s what makes this such a pervasive issue in the workplace. 

There’s a Sense of Micromanagement

On the other side of the above issue, there comes the problem of micromanagement. This is when you hover over an employee as they go about their work day, making comments, pulling them up on little things, and generally being a nuisance as they try to get the job done. 

Again, you may not realize this is what’s going on, but it can be a killer of workplace motivation! People don’t do their best work when they’re being monitored, especially if they cannot have the space to explain what it is they’re doing and why they’re going about it in their chosen way. Micromanagers don’t often listen more than they talk! 

Benefits aren’t as Good as They Could Be

We live in a very competitive world. If you want to attract the top talent and make sure they stick around for years to come, you’re going to need to offer them the best benefits possible. Every business has their own budget, of course, but make sure you’re stretching to use it properly in this manner. 

Good benefits like health insurance, bonuses, guaranteed pay rises, and even the chance to own shares in the business can all be put on the table here. While it’s fun to offer things like gym membership and the chance to wear casual clothing on a regular basis, make sure you get these big hitters down on paper and out of the way first. 

You want your employees to know they have a strong sense of advantage when they work for you, even if your salary is less competitive than others you’ve seen in the industry. Sometimes the benefits package can more than make up for not being able to pay what you’d really like to! 

There’s a Lack of Security

A lack of security is a big problem. In the modern workplace, there’s a lot that can go wrong when you don’t pay attention to who’s on site and/or who’s in your system. Both sides of the equation can spell disaster for your business in a variety of areas. 

For one, it could impact how well you can pay your employees, and it can also allow third parties into the private details your employees have trusted you to safeguard for them. 

As such, make sure you review your current on site security practices and your current cybersecurity practices. 

How often do you patch your network? How often do you double check who has access to it? What’s your password policy? Do all employees follow it? Do you let your devices go offsite, even if they have access to your own company server and all the data it contains? These are the policy questions to go over periodically. 

In terms of physical security, a modern upgrade will never go amiss. Indeed, you may want to invest in access control systems to ensure only the right people are on site at any time. If your premises are located in a very busy, high traffic location, access control can help you to keep an eye on the crowd and where it goes. 

After all, you don’t want your employees constantly having to check to see if their bag is still in the cloak room! That won’t lead to a satisfying working setup at all. 

No Options to Grow

Finally, it’s best to ensure you have training programs in place for your employees to take advantage of. If someone joins your business and finds there’s very little room to grow from here, they’re likely to go elsewhere within a few months. 

You don’t want them to only give their all for a limited time, so give back to them by promising them an opportunity for the future. 

Let’s Make Your Business the Best Place to Work

Your business can become an incredible place to work with just a bit of forward planning and attention to detail. Make sure you keep this in mind when you’re trying to bring in new staff. The more you care about the employee experience, the more they’re going to enjoy working for you, and the lower your turnover is going to be. 

Start with your own actions and behavior, then focus on what you can do to open up the working world for your team. You should also think about day to day safety, common problems that can crop up in the workplace, and how you can help your employees to feel their best when they’re on the job.