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:Family

Fortunes

Game Show 2:Pointless

Game Show 3:Total Wipeout

Game Show 4:question of sports

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.
The games can vary from physical tasks to practical or
puzzle-solving tasks -

Families behind podium-warm

and illuminated
colours/backdrop

Pairs behind podium-warm

backdrop-friendly environment

Obstacle course- people from

all walks of life against
eachother

2 teams of 3 and the quiz master in the

middle of them

Vernon kay- popular UK hostconventionally handsomerelatable northern friendly guy

Alexander Armstrong and

Richard Osman-funny and
wity-good relationship with
eachother

Richard Hammond-popular
well known in the uk-funny

Sue barker-warm middle aged ladyfriendly-relatable

Family contesants-suits- prime

time slot wide
representatons

A pair of friends or family

members- prime time tv-family
friendly show

All kinds of people from all

walks of life wich makes good
viewing for the public

6 sports stars/celebs answering quiz

questions on sport-funny and entertaining

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
even if it just the experience.

Simple-relatable-mainstreamwide appeal

Finding the most obscure

answer-tricky questions

Money to charity (charity

sells)-moral exhibitionism?

trophy and prize money If they

win the final round a pointless
answer adds 250 to the
jackpot; in the final a pointless

Make way around Obstacle

course
Questions on sport-some general
knowledge and others answering question
from a clip they just watched also picture
rounds

A big cash prize and a trophy

No prizes

answer is needed to win

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

Music used as a catchy theme tune and then as mood

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

our survey says-X

Upbeat-catchy-