Ep 5. Geothermal Escapism

As the study group prepares for a heating crisis due to a broken boiler, they decide to distract themselves with a campus-wide game of "Hot Lava" in which the floor is lava and players must navigate obstacles and "islands" to avoid falling in. The prize for the winner is a luxurious hot tub in the dean's office.

Jeff, feeling disconnected from the group, initially declines to play but eventually joins in. Meanwhile, Abed uses the game to cope with his fears of the study group graduating and separating. As the game progresses, tensions rise and alliances shift, with some players resorting to sabotage and betrayal to get ahead.

Ultimately, the game takes a dark turn as players begin sacrificing themselves to allow others to advance, with one character making a final heroic sacrifice that brings the game to an end. The study group is forced to confront their fears and insecurities, and ultimately come together to support each other through the stress and uncertainty of their college years.