  The quantum Pusey--Barrett--Rudolph (PBR) theorem addresses the question of
whether the quantum state corresponds to a $\psi$-ontic model (system's
physical state) or to a $\psi$-epistemic model (observer's knowledge about the
system). We reformulate the PBR theorem as a Monty Hall game, and show that
winning probabilities, for switching doors in the game, depend whether it is a
$\psi$-ontic or $\psi$-epistemic game. For certain cases of the latter,
switching doors provides no advantage. We also apply the concepts involved to
quantum teleportation, in particular for improving reliability.
