In the context of Sherlock Holmes, "The Great Game" refers to a concept introduced in the modern TV series "Sherlock," created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. The series stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson.
In "Sherlock," "The Great Game" is the title of the third episode of the first season. The term "The Great Game" is a metaphorical representation of the cat-and-mouse relationship between Sherlock Holmes and the criminal mastermind Jim Moriarty.
The episode revolves around a series of interconnected cases that seem unrelated at first but are revealed to be part of an elaborate plan orchestrated by Moriarty to challenge Sherlock's intellect and test his abilities. Each case represents a "move" in "The Great Game," as Moriarty taunts Sherlock with the knowledge that he is responsible for these crimes and that each crime has a connection to Sherlock's past.
Throughout the episode, Sherlock and his friends are drawn deeper into Moriarty's intricate web of puzzles and danger. The game culminates in a tense confrontation between Sherlock and Moriarty at the swimming pool, where Moriarty reveals the extent of his control and power over Sherlock's life and those he cares about.
"The Great Game" episode is a turning point in the series and solidifies Moriarty's role as Sherlock's arch-nemesis. It showcases the cat-and-mouse dynamic between the two characters and sets the stage for future confrontations and the ongoing battle of wits between Sherlock Holmes and Jim Moriarty. The term "The Great Game" becomes a significant theme throughout the series as Sherlock and Moriarty continue their complex and dangerous interactions in subsequent episodes.