My Favorite Game Shows and Why I Love Them
Game shows have been a part of television culture for decades, offering a mix of entertainment, trivia, and competition. From strategic debates in Family Feud to obscure answers in Pointless, these shows provide hours of fun and engagement. Here, I explore my favorites and what makes each one unique.
Family Feud: Because Family is Cool and Steve Harvey is the Best
Family Feud
Family Feud is a strategic game show that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The show features two families competing for a grand prize, which can include $20,000 and a brand new car. The gameplay is fast-paced and exciting, with contestants earning points up to 300 by answering survey questions correctly.
The round begins with two families proceeding to the podium. The host presents a question, and the first contestant to hit the button must answer. If they get it wrong, their teammate gets a second chance. This continues until a player reaches 300 points, breaking a tie. The show also features a sudden death round, where the first answer to a single question wins, followed by a final Fast Money round. Fast Money involves two contestants racing to accumulate 200 points within strict time limits, adding to the drama and excitement.
The dynamic duo of Steve Harvey as host, paired with families with a natural flair for aggressive debate, makes Family Feud a thrilling experience. It's not just about trivia; it's about family teamwork and strategic thinking.
The Chase: Mark Watson and Bradley Walsh as Co-stars
The Chase
Another game show that captures my attention is The Chase. This show features Mark Watson and Bradley Walsh as the co-stars, making it an entertaining and engaging watch. Unlike some pretentious shows like Pointless, The Chase keeps things light and fun, with no airs and graces. Mark and Bradley bring a natural rapport to the show, making it enjoyable to watch.
In The Chase, players move around a map, trying to get away from a 'chaser' who is trying to catch them and tag them. Points are accumulated based on how far a player can move on the map. The show combines elements of strategy and reaction time, making it a thrilling challenge.
Pointless: The Show with the Most Obscure Correct Answers
Pointless
One of my all-time favorite game shows is Pointless. Created in the UK, Pointless is a show that challenges players to find the most obscure correct answers to survey questions. The lowest score wins, as answers that nobody knew from a survey are worth zero points—hence the name 'Pointless.'
The show is a unique blend of trivia and strategy. Contestants need to not only know the correct answer but also choose the one that no one else knows. The show's format is simple yet intriguing, making it a favorite among viewers who enjoy pursuing knowledge and thinking outside the box.
While there's no American version currently, I often wish there was. Watching the British version reminds me of the excitement of discovering the lesser-known but correct answers, and the satisfaction of knowing things that others might not.
Jeopardy! and Merv Griffin's Masterpiece
Jeopardy!
Lastly, there's no one who can compete with the Jeopardy! franchise. I can never get enough of the brilliant questions and the contestants who consistently wow everyone. Alex Trebek, the legendary host, makes every episode feel like a celebration of knowledge. His enthusiasm and difficulty in crafting the questions are truly remarkable.
As Merv Griffin invented the game, it's a show that has stood the test of time. The contestants on Jeopardy! often astonish me with their vast knowledge, and even if I can only get one or two answers right, watching the brilliance on display never fails to impress.
A big thank you to Barbara for asking about my favorite game shows. Sharing my love for these shows is a joy, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss them further.