Is ‘Cory in the House’ for the Nintendo DS the Best Video Game of All Time?
Almost inconceivable in the world of gaming, “Cory in the House” for the Nintendo DS has achieved an unexpected cult status and is currently vying for the title of the best video game of all time. Surpassing renowned classics like “Metal Gear Solid,” “Silent Hill,” and “The Witcher” franchise, this 2008 handheld game is now sitting comfortably in the number three spot on Metacritic’s list of top user-reviewed games, boasting a high score of 9.3 based on over 5,000 user ratings. But how did this lighthearted Disney game make it to the top of gamers’ hearts?
A Surprising Rise to Fame
The rise of “Cory in the House” in gaming circles can largely be attributed to an Internet meme that originated on the controversial online imageboard 4chan. In 2013, users began humorously nominating the title as the best video game ever—a facetious notion that breathed life into what could have been an obscure title, transforming it into a viral sensation.
As the meme spread across other platforms, including Reddit, enthusiastic fans began flooding review sites like Amazon and GameFAQs with glowing reviews, effectively manipulating the game’s rating and heightening its status among gaming communities. This playful campaign resulted in the game seeing a resurgence in popularity, causing prices in the secondhand market to skyrocket. On platforms like eBay, copies of “Cory in the House” are now listed for extravagant prices—reaching as high as $400 (₱23,772).
What Exactly is ‘Cory in the House’?
Originally a short-lived Disney sitcom that aired from 2007 to 2008, “Cory in the House” stars Kyle Massey as Cory Baxter, the lovely and mischievous brother of psychic Raven Baxter from the popular series “That’s So Raven.” The premise revolves around Cory adjusting to life in the White House, where his father landed a chef position for the President of the United States. The narrative captures the humorous escapades of Cory as he navigates the complexities of living in such a unique environment.
Despite its humorous premise, “Cory in the House” was tragically cut short and did not receive a third season, attributed partly to the Writers Guild Strike and an on-set injury of Kyle Massey. Nevertheless, the series has since garnered a cult following, with fans affectionately dubbing the show the “best anime ever,” showcasing how far internet humor can stretch.
Gaming Scores and Comparisons
In the grand scheme of video gaming narratives, it seems improbable that “Cory in the House” could contend with heavyweights like “Metal Gear Solid” or the award-winning “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,” which holds the top spot with a score of 9.6 from over 23,677 user ratings. Notably, “Cory in the House” shares its score of 9.3 with “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater” and its expansion, “Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence.” This peculiar competition has left gaming enthusiasts at a crossroads, pondering whether the meme-driven popularity of “Cory” can be taken seriously within the broader gaming landscape.
The Broader Impact
This curious rise of “Cory in the House” exemplifies a significant shift in the gaming culture rhythm, where legacy titles may no longer solely dictate prestige. The game attained this notoriety not from inherent quality or gameplay mechanics but rather from a grassroots effort by a dedicated online community. It raises questions about how user sentiments shape online ratings and game valuations, which could potentially influence the market dynamics of indie and lesser-known gaming titles in the future.
What’s Next for Kyle Massey?
While the whirlwind success of the game has propelled fans into a nostalgia cycle, what has become of Kyle Massey? Although his prominent roles in mainstream television have dwindled, he was involved in recent voice acting projects, including Nickelodeon’s “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and Cartoon Network’s “Mighty Magiswords.” However, it was a separate controversy in 2021 related to serious allegations that had engulfed him in scandal, diverting attention from his work. Massey has vehemently denied the allegations, claiming them to be attempts at extortion.
A Conclusive Note
As the discourse around “Cory in the House” continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: the unpredictable dynamics of the internet can substantially elevate even the most unassuming titles. A frivolous meme transformed this Disney game into a strong contender for video game immortality, making players question what truly defines the “best” games of all time. With over 5,000 user scores propelling “Cory” to the limelight, where it ultimately stands on the Metacritic leaderboard could be testament to the unfathomable power of online communities in the digital age.
