Generic Conventions of Television Game Shows

Definition: A Game show is a programme, on television or radio, where contestant(s) demonstrate knowledge by answering questions and has a competitive
element.
Generic Convention

Game Show 1:
All Star Family Fortunes.

Set in a television studio. Set design often includes a

podium behind which the contestant stands. Light is often
an important element of the mise-en-scene with lights
dimmed or spotlights used to heighten dramatic tension.
The host is sometimes a key element of the show and is
often someone whose A list days are over; a TV star from a
different TV genre; a comedian. The host often holds cards
as an aide-memoire for introducing contestants. Traditionally
the host is male, accompanied by a glamorous assistant.
Contestants apply to join the show and vary in age and
background. They are selected because they have
something about them, which will help make the show
successful or are selected at random. Contestants are
sometimes selected from the studio audience.

Families are behind

podiums and the set is
illuminated and warmth with
blues and purples.

The games can vary from physical tasks to practical or

puzzle-solving tasks The questions (if it is a quiz/gameshow hybrid) can vary
depending on the target audience. They are usually set
independently. Contestants usually know what type of
questions theyll be asked; often start easy and get harder.
Technology has increased the way audiences and
contestants can see & respond to questions.
The prizes can be large e.g. cars and holidays or small e.g.
a glass bowl. Sometimes the prize is the title of being the
champion. Usually even the losers go away with something

Game Show 2:
Robot Wars.
Is set in an arena.

Game Show 3:
Would I Lie To You?

Game Show 4:
Room 101

Teams are behind

podium and the host is behind
his own. All are seated.

Set with a large bank

vault-esque door in the
background.

Host is a known, public

figure with a friendly,
happy accent who speaks in
popular dialect as opposed to
proper English.

First was Jeremy

Clarkson, then Craig
Charles and finally, Dara
OBrien.

Rob Brydon. He is a
well known comedian and
presents the show well by
physically embodying the
mood of the show.

Frank Skinner suits the

genre of the show by choosing
which of the things the
contestants hate that he
agrees with.

Famous families sign

up to partake in the show.
They may have specific
reasons for taking part in the
show which is known only to
that family.
None.

The contestants are

normal, everyday people who
apply to build a fighting robot
to take part.

Two teams of
celebrities each captained by
either Lee Mack or David
Mitchell.

They are celebrities who have

specific dislikes which they
hope Frank Skinner agrees
with.

The questions are all

designed to be easy to answer
for all the contestants and
families who are watching at
home.

None, it is all robot

combat

30,000 for a charity of

the winning familys choice.

Robot wars Champion,

potential fame.

None.

Guessing as to
whether someone is lying or
not.
It is all guessing as
to the honesty of the opposing
team member.

None

No prizes.

None

None

even if it just the experience.

Gimmicks or catchphrases are often used to make each
show original and become part of the national
consciousness.

Music often used first as a catchy theme tune and then as

mood music to increase tension or to signal different parts of
the show.

Our survey says!

The noise upon an
incorrect answer being given.

Introductory music.

3 2 1 Activate
Music.
Intimidating house robots.

The word Lie or Truth

appear on the screen behind a
team.

Im going to put into Room

101!

Introductory music

Introductory music.

Introductory music.