At the age of 12, I stumbled upon the reality show Survivor while browsing channels with my mother. We paused to watch a compelling scene where Richard Hatch, a corporate trainer and eventual winner, attempted to manage a group of contestants who were at odds over essential survival tasks. Sue Hawk, a self-proclaimed redneck, voiced her frustrations, challenging the idea that corporate strategies would work in the wild.
My mom explained that the show featured contestants living on an island and competing for a $1 million prize. By the episode’s end, I was hooked.
Fast forward to 36, and my enthusiasm for Survivor has only intensified. I have dedicated years to engaging in discussions on forums, listening to podcasts that dissect each episode, analyzing potential season winners using “edgic” techniques, and participating in Survivor fantasy leagues. Although I’ve contemplated applying to be a contestant, the thought of enduring 26 days with limited sleep and food is daunting for me.
That changed on January 31, 2023, when fortune smiled upon me. While at a coffee shop, my husband spotted a casting flyer for Surviving Bloomington, described as a four-day live game inspired by Survivor. The application deadline was that very day, prompting me to quickly film an audition video.
A few months later, I found myself in a wooded backyard in Bloomington, Indiana, meeting my fellow contestants while the production crew captured our moments on their phones.
The essence of Survivor—outwit, outplay, outlast—was alive in this new format. Despite knowing about live reality games (LRGs), I was surprised to discover they were so close to home. In just 14 months, I participated in three such games.
I soon uncovered the vast landscape of LRGs across the country, not limited to Survivor. Variations of shows like The Mole and Big Brother, along with entirely original games, exist. These experiences can vary in length from one to ten days, with some streamed live and others edited for YouTube. The Survivor-themed LRGs occasionally feature actual contestants from the show.
These DIY games mirror their television counterparts, filled with challenges, twists, and themes. For instance, during the Survivor Weekender LRG I joined, the theme was “Olive Garden of Eden,” with tribes named Soup, Salad, and Sticks (I was on the Stick tribe). Surviving Bloomington was based on the idea of Order versus Chaos, with my group representing Order.
My journey in Surviving Bloomington was short-lived; I ended up being the first contestant voted out after losing an immunity challenge that involved assembling a wooden puzzle. In true Survivor fashion, alliances shifted rapidly, and the edit didn’t capture the complete narrative, particularly regarding a surprise betrayal.
I also missed my opportunity for redemption in a challenge where I had to hold a water bottle above my head. I reached the final three but ultimately could not endure after nearly 25 minutes.
Though my time was brief, I formed friendships during the game. Soon after arriving at camp, we shared personal stories, and one night on Redemption Island, I found camaraderie in ghost stories shared late into the night.
After Surviving Bloomington, I participated in Survivor Weekender and later joined The Mole Ohio. Similar to its TV counterpart, this game involved working together to accumulate money that only one player could ultimately win, while still navigating the challenges posed by a designated saboteur.
Unlike Survivor’s emphasis on collaboration, The Mole encouraged a more self-sufficient approach. I could explore a different side of my personality, acting more independently and strategically capable of creating chaos without needing to secure votes for survival.
While the stakes in LRGs are generally lower and centered around bragging rights, the sense of community is refreshing. I have kept in touch with most participants, whether individually or through group chats.
Though I’m uncertain if I could endure 26 days on an actual island, my experiences with these games have bolstered my confidence. Surrounded by others who share my passion, I discovered a sense of connection and support.
With Survivor 47 set to premiere tonight, I’m eager to see how it unfolds and have my sights on contestant Teeny as a potential winner.