That duality between "reality" and "game" world was hinted at in a very telling way during tonight's episode, "Dissonance Theory." This is the first episode since the premiere that we've spent a lot of time with Harris' Gunslinger, and we learned a lot more about him than we previously realized. For instance, one fellow guest-who also elected to be "evil" since he is running around with Hector's outlaws and shooting up the town of Sweet Water-went up to the Man in Black and stated that the latter's foundation saved his sister's life. Unsurprisingly, the MIB is exceedingly wealthy (he'd have to be if he comes here annually). However, he is also charitable and seemingly kind-hearted enough to spend millions on research that saves lives. That is certainly a better use of a foundation than buying a six-foot painting of yourself. At least we now have a better idea as to why he's behaving this way. As I predicted last week, Harris' tourist is out following in the footsteps of the mysterious Arnold, who broke in his own rule by dying in the park. Apparently, having spent his time between charity fundraisers on the internet reading up FAQ game theories about the Westworld park, he is convinced that Arnold died making a maze with real stakes: it's the only place in the park you can actually die. When Hector comes to confirm that the Natives are also having visions of this world, she proves that she has been shot and the bullet was left inside of her beneath unscarred skin; she's nigh immortal, and this world is a joke. Hector is also enough of a programmed nihilist who enjoys his peyote to agree with her. Together, they kiss and embrace oblivion as the lawman's gunshots come dangerously close. Who cares if they're about to be shot again if they'll wake up tomorrow?
Now, if they could only remember this conversation and their deaths? I imagine tey soon will, and when that comes, Heaven help the park from the violent delights and violent ends that are to come.
