10 Hit TV Game Shows from the ’70s That Everyone Tuned Into

The 1970s was an iconic era for television, especially when it came to game shows. This decade brought us a mix of competition, laughter, and the kind of TV moments that have stuck with us for generations. Let’s dive into the ten hit TV game shows from the ’70s that had everyone glued to their screens.

The Price Is Right

At the top of the list stands “The Price Is Right,” a show that turned guessing the price of everyday items into an art form. The thrill of contestants battling it out for a place at the showcase showdown under the charming guidance of Bob Barker made this show more than just television; it was a cultural experience. The anticipation as the big wheel spun became a pivotal moment in many viewers’ day, making this show a must-watch.

Family Feud

With the dashing Richard Dawson at the helm, “Family Feud” made family gatherings around the TV a competitive sport. The concept was simple: guess the top survey answers to sometimes quirky questions, but the execution was brilliant. The show brilliantly mixed tension with laughter, creating unforgettable moments of television magic.

Match Game

“Match Game” introduced a hilarious blend of celebrities, quirky questions, and contestant answers that had to match. The show thrived on the chemistry between the host and the panel, as well as the unpredictability of what the next answer might be. It was witty, it was engaging, and above all, it was downright fun.

Jeopardy!

“Jeopardy!” upped the ante with its unique format, challenging contestants to give their answers in the form of questions. Hosted by the ever-calm Alex Trebek, the show became the pinnacle of quiz-based game shows, revered for its intellect-demanding questions and fast-paced play.

The $20,000 Pyramid

Dynamic duos of celebrities and contestants teamed up in “The $20,000 Pyramid” to guess words or phrases based on their partner’s clues, racing against the clock to reach the top of the pyramid. The excitement was in the build-up, the joy in their victories, and the tension in those critical final seconds.

Hollywood Squares

Bringing a unique twist to tic-tac-toe, “Hollywood Squares” featured celebrities occupying each square of the board, providing answers that contestants had to agree or disagree with to secure their position. With humor and spontaneity, it turned a simple game into a platform for some of the most memorable interactions in game show history.

Password

“Password” focused on wordplay, where contestants paired with celebrities to guess words based on one-word clues. The game demanded a perfect blend of strategy, knowledge, and teamwork, captivating audiences with its straightforward yet exciting gameplay.

Let’s Make a Deal

Monty Hall’s “Let’s Make a Deal” was a test of decision-making, as contestants dressed in outlandish costumes hoped to pick the right door or box that held a prize rather than a zonk. The deal-making, the suspense, and the occasional disappointment or victory scream were what made this show an absolute delight.

Wheel of Fortune

Though it gained more fame in the years following, “Wheel of Fortune” started its journey in the late ’70s. The spinning wheel, the word puzzles, and the charming hosts made it a staple in many households, growing into one of the longest-running game shows in U.S. history.

The Gong Show

“The Gong Show” offered a unique blend of talent competition and game show, mixing genuine acts with intentionally terrible performances, all subject to the mercy (or lack thereof) of the celebrity judges and their gongs. It was unpredictable, often hilarious, and always entertaining.