It was not a game, it was a test. Furthermore, it wasn't a test where one is graded by actual completion, but by the character they display in a dire situation, when the lives of many are in their hands and when time is of the essence.
It became a "game" because you viewed it as such, did not take it seriously, and cheated, thus showing the type of character you possessed. Let it be noted, that was the type of character that proved the individual (you) does not belong in such an institution as someone to look up to in a tense situation, but more suited to petty trickery and thievery.