Most Popular Gameshows In The UK

Most Popular Gameshows In The UK On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook Magazine UK“, we check out research to discover the most popular gameshows in the UK, and ask what makes them so popular.

Game shows have been a staple of British television for decades, captivating audiences with their mix of skill, luck, and entertainment. But what makes certain shows stand out as perennial favorites? Let’s dive into the world of game shows to uncover the winning formula.

Experts at Playcasino.com, analysed Google Keyword Planner data to discover the most popular game shows in the UK and attempt to unravel the secrets behind their enduring appeal. A list of game shows from the earliest released to most recent was devised using IMDB and analysed by combining the game show with other related terms to determine their average monthly search volume. The gameshow was searched on its own and combined with other terms such as {gameshow} game show, {gameshow} host, where to watch {gameshow} and more to determine the ranking. So, grab your buzzer, and let’s get ready to play!

Most Popular Gameshows In The UK

Rank	Game Show	Average Monthly Search Volume
1	Gladiators	295,738
2	Countdown	90.969
3	The Chase	82,410
4	Deal or No Deal	72,781
5	Pointless	50,218
6	Who Wants to Be a millionaire?	48,970
7	Catchphrase	41,774
8	Tipping Point	39,969
9	Mastermind	38,474
10	University Challenge	36,967

Gladiators

Gladiators reigns supreme as the UK’s most popular game show, commanding a staggering 295,738 average monthly Google searches. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its unique blend of physical prowess, entertainment, and nostalgia.

The show’s revival in 2024, hosted by the dynamic duo of Bradley and Barney Walsh, ignited a wave of excitement and nostalgia, propelling it to become the BBC’s biggest entertainment launch in nearly a decade. With a massive 10 million views in just 28 days, it’s clear that Gladiators has captured the nation’s imagination once again.

The show’s success can be attributed to several factors:

• Nostalgia: Gladiators taps into a collective sense of nostalgia, reminding viewers of a simpler, more exhilarating time.
• Physical Spectacle: The athleticism and courage of the gladiators are awe-inspiring, offering a thrilling escape from everyday life.
• Family-friendly entertainment: Gladiators is suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for family viewing.
• Competitive spirit: The head-to-head challenges between contestants and gladiators evoke a sense of camaraderie and rivalry.

Countdown

Following closely behind Gladiators is Channel 4’s enduringly popular Countdown. With an average of 90,969 monthly searches, it’s clear that the show’s appeal hasn’t waned since its debut in 1982. Presented by Colin Murray and the ever-impressive Rachel Riley, Countdown challenges contestants to demonstrate their linguistic and numerical prowess.

The show’s longevity can be attributed to several factors:

• Intellectual Challenge: Countdown appeals to viewers who enjoy mental stimulation and problem-solving.
• Nostalgia: For many, the show evokes fond memories of watching it with family or friends.
• Skill and Luck: The combination of skill and luck in both the letters and numbers rounds keeps viewers engaged.
• Rachel Riley: The show’s resident mathematician has become a beloved TV personality, adding a touch of glamour and intelligence to the program.

The Chase

Claiming the bronze medal in our game show popularity contest is The Chase. With an average monthly search volume of 82,410, this ITV stalwart has cemented its place in the hearts of British viewers. Since its debut in 2009, hosted by the charismatic Bradley Walsh, The Chase has offered a thrilling blend of trivia and tension.

The show’s format, pitting ordinary contestants against formidable quiz champions known as Chasers, has proven to be a winning formula. The high-stakes nature of the final chase, where contestants must outrun the Chaser to win a cash prize, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The largest-ever solo prize of £75,000 won in 2022 is a testament to the show’s ability to deliver life-changing moments.

The Chase‘s enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:

• Relatability: The show features ordinary people competing for substantial cash prizes, making it easy for viewers to imagine themselves in the contestants’ shoes.
• Adrenaline-fueled excitement: The final chase is a heart-pounding climax that keeps audiences engaged.
• Charismatic hosts and Chasers: Bradley Walsh’s warm and witty presenting style, combined with the formidable intellect of the Chasers, creates a compelling dynamic.

Deal Or No Deal

Securing the fourth spot on our list is the iconic Deal or No Deal. With an average monthly search volume of 72,781, this show has captivated audiences for over two decades. Originally hosted by the charismatic Noel Edmonds for over 3,000 episodes, the show’s format of contestants choosing between sealed boxes containing varying amounts of money, culminating in a final offer from the mysterious Banker, has proven to be a winning formula.

The show’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several key factors:

• Tension and suspense: The gradual unveiling of box values and the suspenseful decision-making process create a high level of excitement.
• Relatability: The concept of winning life-changing sums of money is universally appealing.
• The Banker: The enigmatic and often ruthless character of the Banker adds a layer of intrigue and drama.

Pointless

Pointless defies the traditional quiz show format by rewarding obscurity rather than knowledge. With an average monthly search volume of 50,218, it has secured its place as a beloved British institution. Hosted by the charismatic Alexander Armstrong, the show challenges contestants to provide the least popular answers to a series of general knowledge questions.

The show’s success can be attributed to several factors:

• Intellectual Challenge: While it might seem counterintuitive, finding obscure answers requires a surprising amount of knowledge and quick thinking.
• Relatability: The show’s format is easy to understand, making it accessible to a wide audience.
• Humorous Commentary: Alexander Armstrong’s witty banter and Richard Osman’s encyclopedic knowledge added a layer of entertainment to the show.
• Unexpected Outcomes: The unpredictable nature of the game keeps viewers engaged, as contestants often surprise themselves and the audience with their answers.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? holds a special place in the hearts of British game show fans, securing the fifth spot on our list with a monthly search volume of 48,970. Originally hosted by the iconic Chris Tarrant, the show captivated audiences with its simple yet thrilling premise: answer a series of multiple-choice questions correctly to win a life-changing sum of money.

The show’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:

• The Dream of Wealth: The prospect of winning a million pounds is a powerful draw for viewers, making them invested in the contestant’s journey.
• Tension and Excitement: The increasing difficulty of the questions and the pressure of the ticking clock create a sense of high-stakes drama.
• Lifelines: The iconic lifelines (Phone a Friend, Ask the Audience, 50:50, and the controversial ‘Expert’) added an extra layer of excitement and strategy.
• Nostalgia: The show’s original run has become a cultural touchstone, with many viewers fondly recalling its impact on popular culture.

Catchphrase

Securing the seventh spot on our list is the iconic Catchphrase, boasting an average monthly search volume of 41,774. This visual game show, initially hosted by the unforgettable Roy Walker and later by Nick Weir, has captured the hearts of viewers for decades. Its 2013 revival, helmed by Stephen Mulhern, has ensured its continued popularity.

Catchphrase’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet addictive format. Contestants must decipher phrases or sayings from often humorous visual clues. This combination of visual and verbal challenges has proven to be a winning formula.

The show’s success can be attributed to several factors:

• Interactive nature: Viewers often find themselves shouting out the answers along with the contestants, creating a shared experience.
• Nostalgia: For many, Catchphrase is a nostalgic throwback to a simpler time of television.
• Adaptability: The show has successfully evolved with the times, incorporating modern elements while retaining its core appeal.
• Stephen Mulhern: The charismatic presenter has brought a fresh energy to the show, attracting a new generation of fans.

Tipping Point

Claiming the eighth spot on our list is Tipping Point, a unique game show that has captured the nation’s attention since its debut in 2012. Hosted by Ben Shephard, the show has consistently delivered a thrilling blend of quizzing and arcade excitement. With an average monthly search volume of 39,969, it’s clear that the show’s popularity remains strong.

The format is simple yet addictive: contestants answer general knowledge questions to win counters, which they then use to try and win a cash prize by dropping them into slots on a giant coin-pusher machine. The suspenseful moment when the counters teeter on the edge before dropping is a hallmark of the show, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Tipping Point‘s success can be attributed to several factors:

• Visual Spectacle: The large, imposing machine is a captivating focal point, adding a unique element to the quiz show format.
• Skill and Luck: The game combines elements of knowledge and chance, appealing to a wide audience.
• Relatability: The show’s accessible format and the potential for life-changing winnings make it relatable to viewers.

Mastermind

Claiming the ninth spot on our list is the revered Mastermind, with an impressive 38,474 average monthly searches. Often dubbed the “Olympics of quiz shows,” this iconic BBC series has challenged contestants since its debut in 1972. Originally hosted by the formidable Magnus Magnusson, the show is now expertly presented by Clive Myrie.

Mastermind‘s enduring popularity is a testament to its rigorous format. Contestants are grilled on a specialized subject of their choice, demonstrating exceptional depth of knowledge. The iconic black chair and the intense spotlight create an atmosphere of high intellectual challenge, capturing the imagination of viewers.

The show’s appeal lies in:

• Intellectual Rigor: Mastermind celebrates knowledge and expertise, appealing to viewers who appreciate intellectual challenges.
• Prestigious Image: The show’s reputation as a test of mental fortitude has contributed to its elite status.
• Nostalgic Value: For many, Mastermind evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of a time when quiz shows were seen as a measure of intelligence.
• Expert Hosting: Both Magnus Magnusson and Clive Myrie have brought their own unique style to the show, enhancing its appeal.

University Challenge

Rounding out our top ten is University Challenge, a venerable institution in the world of quiz shows with an average monthly search volume of 36,967. Since its inception in 1962, the show has pitted the brightest university minds against each other in a battle of wits. Now in its 53rd series and helmed by Amol Rajan, University Challenge continues to be a beloved fixture on British television.

The show’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:

• Intellectual Rigor: University Challenge demands a high level of knowledge, appealing to viewers who appreciate intellectual challenges.
• Prestige: Appearing on the show is seen as a significant achievement for university students, adding to the program’s prestige.
• Competitive Spirit: The head-to-head format creates a sense of excitement and rivalry.
• Nostalgia: For many, University Challenge is a nostalgic reminder of their own student days.

UK Game Shows

It is no secret that game shows are a huge hit with the UK public and continue to provide joy and healthy competition amongst the population. Whether you have a real desire to apply for a game show yourself or just enjoy playing along at home, game shows provide the perfect balance of improving your general knowledge whilst having a good time all round.

It’s nice to see that game shows that have been running for decades are still as popular now as they used to be when they first aired. Not only do the classics feel nostalgic for older viewers, its pleasant to see younger viewers appreciating shows from a different generation.

–Nathan Vega, head of Marketing at Playcasino.com 

Methodology

Monthly average search volume data was taken from Google Keyword Planner based on searches over the 12 months between May 2023 and April 2024 to reveal the rankings.

Popular UK game shows over the years were analysed based on searches for:

[gameshow]

[gameshow] + game show

[gameshow] + questions

[gameshow] + answers

[gameshow] + presenters

[gameshow] + game

[gameshow] + host

where to watch + [gameshow]

apply for + [gameshow]

The combined search volume for each show’s search terms was calculated, and then used to rank the shows from highest number of average monthly searches to lowest.

Game shows that were only cast for celebrities were removed from the ranking