On December 18, 2024, in Santa Monica, California, I had the unique opportunity to participate in the highly anticipated premiere of MrBeast’s new Prime Video competition series, “Beast Games.” This event featured a staggering 2,000 contestants all vying for a life-changing prize of $5 million. The experience was a blend of excitement, competition, and, ultimately, a psychological exploration into human behavior under financial stress. As contestants grappled with emotions ranging from joy to despair, it became clear that the competition was as much a social experiment as it was a game. I learned five critical insights about human behavior related to finance—lessons that provide a more profound understanding of how money impacts our decisions and lives.
One of the most significant takeaways from the experience was how irrational people can become when it involves money. Although each contestant had only a 1 in 2,000 chance of winning the $5 million—a mere 0.05% chance—many participants acted with a sense of entitlement, as if the money were already theirs. This misplaced confidence led to intense emotional reactions upon elimination, with some contesting individuals expressing their frustration through verbal outbursts or even acts of aggression. Witnessing this behavior revealed how the mere idea of potentially gaining large sums of money can distort rational thinking and lead people to make uninformed decisions. This phenomenon is not isolated to contests like “Beast Games” but extends to broader societal behaviors—explaining why so many Americans engage in lottery play despite the odds being stacked against them or why they fall prey to high-risk investment schemes.
Another important lesson I gleaned was the realization that money is not the only form of currency. While financial wealth is often seen as paramount, relationships and information proved to be equally, if not more, valuable in the context of “Beast Games.” Initial interactions revolved around exchanging vital bits of information, such as where to find meals or details about challenges. The people who were well-informed held a distinct advantage in navigating the competition. Furthermore, social capital—established through alliances and relationships—also became a critical asset. In real life, much like during the games, connections can lead to opportunities that money alone cannot buy. Participants even engaged in trading food items to forge relationships or secure favors, emphasizing that non-monetary assets often carry significant weight in achieving success.
The lengths to which individuals will go for a financial reward were manifest during “Beast Games.” Given the extreme emotional investment all contestants had in the competition, the environment soon turned tense. Some contestants went to alarming extremes, with one instance nearly escalating to physical violence over a perceived threat to a participant’s chance of winning. This eagerness to risk personal and interpersonal well-being in pursuit of money reflected a broader truth about human behavior—that the allure of monetary gain can drive people to make perilous choices. Whether through consistent burnout in demanding jobs, risky gambling, or engaging in unscrupulous activities, this challenge underscores knowing when to balance the pursuit of wealth without compromising one’s health or values.
The competitive atmosphere at “Beast Games” also showcased the darker side of human nature—specifically, the element of greed. A moment that particularly struck me was when MrBeast offered $50,000 to a contestant who was willing to sacrifice the chance at the grand prize for a lesser sum. This moment served as a poignant example of how greed can lead to betrayal and discontent, especially when a participant’s short-sightedness impacts others negatively. Even with reassurances and additional compensation for participants post-event, some individuals still pursued a class-action lawsuit against the creators of the show, reflecting a mindset that often seeks to obtain more than what was initially offered, regardless of the circumstances or contentment with what was given.
Lastly, my time at “Beast Games” illustrated how money and fame can be burdensome. MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, embodies the challenges faced by those who achieve notable success. While his philanthropic image is widely admired, the burden of constant scrutiny and judgment can affect mental health and personal relationships. The aftermath of the event highlighted that even in generosity, there’s criticism. Observing MrBeast’s challenges serves as a reminder that success often comes with a significant cost—scrutiny and criticism that can overshadow the rewards. For anyone seeking to climb towards success, it’s vital to remain grounded and prepared for the heightened responsibilities and pressures that accompany it.
In conclusion, my experience of participating in “Beast Games” provided a rich backdrop for understanding the complex interplay between human behavior and money. Insights gained from this endeavor act as vital reminders of how financial ambition, irrational decision-making, and the importance of relationships are all interwoven. Through this competition, I learned not only about the drive for personal wealth but also about the intangible assets that truly influence success. Emphasizing realistic expectations, maintaining a balanced view of ambition, and recognizing the burdens of wealth serve as essential considerations in both personal and financial aspects of life. As we navigate our daily lives—whether striving for wealth or managing personal finances—these lessons from “Beast Games” remain relevant and valuable.
