[Season 3] Episode 12: Games Ponies Play.... and only they play

HELLOOO EVERYBODY and welcome to Cultures Compendium of Reviews! As always, I am Culture Shock. Your Guide to all things cultural in Equestria and beyond. In todays episode, we learn how one little misstep can lead to a whole lot of trouble. However, there are a few rules to go over before we can get started. First off, all content in this blog is expressly the opinion of it's author. It does not, nor should it EVER, reflect the overall opinion of the fandom. Lastly, if ANY of you notice ANY mistakes, be it typos or otherwise, please don't hesitate to let me know. With that said, let's begin. Shall we?

Games Ponies Play is the 12th episode of season 3 and the 64th overall. Written by Dave Polsky, the episode title was a play on a popular 1980's TV series called Games People Play. The story follows Twilight and gang as they help Princess Cadance prepare for the arrival of the Equestria Games inspector, Ms. Harshwhinny. But when it turns out they picked up the wrong guest it's a mad dash to fix things before it's too late. Can the girls make a good impression in the name of the Crystal Empire? Or will this be another disappointment for the crystal ponies?

Okay, rather than ranting about how this episode was more like a National Lampoons college comedy film. Let's go over where things went wrong. First off, the lack of introduction. It's usually customary for a valet to confirm the person, or ponies, identity before giving them the customary greeting. Which, they didn't. Secondly, a good valet always makes sure to get as many details as they can about the pony they're looking for. Which, I'm more than sure, Shining or Cadance would have been happy to give. They went after a vague clue with a bad result. Thirdly, the best way to hold a welcoming party is to work in teams. One goes to greet the guest, one makes any last preparations, and one helps the host / hostess prepare. They chose to rush the job at once and left the fashion diva to handle the most important part. Last but not least, DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL DETAILS! A smart welcoming committee keeps a cool head and doesn't let things get to them. It helps project a positive image and can synch an important business deal. They let the over egotistical, and over exuberant Pegasus take charge. Add all the problems up and you get a recipe for a pile of rancid horse manure.

Regarding this episodes lesson I think it's somewhere along the lines of how sometimes the best impression often comes from the most unlikely of sources. Basically this means to treat every guest you get like royalty. A good impression can reflect in a positive review. If the guest is happy then it means more business for you. If they're not happy then it can reflect poorly in their review. Just make sure to follow the proper steps when greeting, put your best foot forward, and never be afraid to show your best hometown hospitality. Even if the place your representing isn't your hometown.

Alright! This concludes my review of Games Ponies Play. Essentially, I recommend you have 911 on speed dial for this episode. Otherwise, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. I give this episode a 2 / 10. Hope you guys enjoyed the review. Be sure to leave a like if you did. Also, don't forget to follow us for more updates. Got a suggestion for a review? Leave it in the comments section down below. This has been Culture Shock, your guide to all things cultural in Equestria and beyond, saying KEEP CALM AND BRONY ON!! PEACE!!