
Game shows have captivated television audiences for generations with their dynamic formats, charismatic hosts, and thrilling competitions. With interesting segments like trivia challenges and outrageous stunts, these shows have shaped pop culture. Here’s a look at the top 15 game shows that have defined the genre and left a lasting impact on the industry.
Jeopardy!

Since its debut in 1964, Jeopardy! has become synonymous with intellectual challenge and trivia mastery. Contestants answer questions across various categories, testing their knowledge and quick thinking. This show remains a beloved classic, with iconic host Alex Trebek leading the way for decades.
The Price Is Right

The Price Is Right invited contestants to guess the prices of various products for a chance to win prizes. It is loved for its enthusiastic audience and memorable catchphrases like “Come on down!” which have added this show to the conversation when talking about daytime television.
Wheel of Fortune

From 1975, Wheel of Fortune combined word puzzles with spinning a giant wheel for cash prizes. Contestants solve phrases by guessing letters and blending luck and skill. As the iconic faces of the show, Pat Sajak and Vanna White have helped it remain a fixture in TV history.
Family Feud

Family Feud has entertained families since its inception in 1976. It pits two families against each other in a battle of wits and survey responses. With its humorous moments and engaging format, the show has seen numerous iterations and hosts, making it a timeless favorite among audiences.
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire

This show revolutionized quiz shows with its high-stakes format and lifelines that assisted contestants in winning one million dollars. Since 1988, its suspenseful atmosphere and engaging questions have captivated viewers and led to numerous international adaptations.
Deal or No Deal

Premiering in 2005, Deal or No Deal became an instant hit with its unique premise involving contestants choosing briefcases containing hidden cash amounts. Host Howie Mandel’s charisma contributed significantly to the show’s popularity as players negotiated with the “banker” to secure their winnings.
The Newlywed Game

First airing in 1966, The Newlywed Game tests how well newly married couples know each other through humorous questions about their relationships. Its lighthearted format and entertaining revelations have made it a beloved classic that resonates with audiences today.
Match Game

Famous for its irreverent humor, Match Game, which came out in 1962, features contestants filling in blanks with clever answers to humorous prompts. Its celebrity panelists add an extra layer of entertainment as they attempt to match contestants’ responses.
Hollywood Squares

In Hollywood Squares, contestants must determine whether celebrity answers are correct while trying to link three squares in a row. The iconic game show combines celebrity culture with tic-tac-toe gameplay, leading to unparalleled comedic competition.
The $100,000 Pyramid

Starting as The $10,000 Pyramid in 1973 and evolving into The $100,000 Pyramid, this word association game challenges contestants to convey clues within time limits. Hosted by famous personalities like Clark and Strahan, this game show remains popular for its engaging format.
Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?

Debuting in 2007, Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? challenges adult contestants to tackle questions from elementary school subjects to test their knowledge of grade-level curricula. This entertaining format highlights how much knowledge we retain from childhood while providing relatable comedic moments.
The Chase

The Chase features contestants competing against a professional quizzer known as “The Chaser.” This high-stakes trivia competition tests players’ knowledge while adding an element of suspense as they try to outsmart the formidable opponent.
Supermarket Sweep

Originally airing in the early ’90s and revived multiple times, Supermarket Sweep combines shopping challenges with trivia questions about grocery items. Contestants race through grocery stores, trying to collect the most valuable items within a time limit, making for an exciting viewing experience.
The Weakest Link

A spinoff of its British counterpart, The Weakest Link has intense gameplay where contestants answer trivia questions while voting off their weakest member after each round. Hearing “You are the weakest link; goodbye!” is iconic as it adds drama to the elimination process.
Blockbusters

If you’re familiar with the catchy Hand-Jive dance, you likely appreciate this classic game show! Blockbusters was a unique competition where contestants answered general knowledge questions by choosing letters from a hexagonal wall. Although it lasted just three seasons in the US, its UK version was a hit, surpassing 1,000 episodes.