X-Files: FPS

Watching the X-Files episode "First Person Shooter", I learned a number of things: 1. Computers do not have plugs. When a program is out of control, you can't just unplug the computer, you have to find the secret code that shuts it down. Even hitting it with a hammer won't work, you have to find the code. 2. Programmers in TV shows take Linus Thorvalds' quip "Real men don't make backups" far too seriously. When they finally learn the code (Alt-Shift-Bloodbath), it erases the entire game program and it is lost for ever. 3. Computer game skills translate flawlessly into real life skills. Darryl Musashi handles a pair of machine pistols just as well as a game controller. 4. The best way to win a FPS game is to stand still and shoot straight in front of you.

Compared to all that, the idea of a created game character evolving a mind of her own, hopping into another program and using it to kill people in real life sounds almost believable.

Update: I've just found out that this episode was written by William Gibson.