Ranger Ian's Collection A-H (including $)
THE $128,000 QUESTION (Alex Trebek) - A 1970s update to the classic quiz show. (5 episodes)
1. From 1977; first player: Joseph (boxing) for $8000; credits missing (OC, TMS11.1)
2. From 1977; first player: Dwier (Da Vinci) for $16,000; credits missing (OC, TMS11.2)
3. From 1977; first player: Herston couple (Gilbert & Sullivan) for $128 (OC, TMS11.3)
4. From 1977; first player: John (World War I) for $8000; last few seconds missing (OC, TMS11.4)
5. From 1977; first player: John (World War I) for $16,000 (OC, TMS11.5)
THE $1,000,000 CHANCE OF A LIFETIME (Jim Lange) - Sure, it was a ripoff of well-known word games, but the prize, the guards, the celebrations and the "muffin" were like no other in the genre! (10 episodes)
1. From January 6, 1986; premiere; Kevin & Rene vs. Betty & Doug; mediocre video and part of open cut off; bonus win (OC, PB2.1)
2. From January 1986; Steve & Connie vs. David & Dena; Steve & Connie become the first couple to win $1 MILLION! (OB, CD1.12)
3. From 1986; George & Kim vs. Vince & Sarah; George & Kim win $1 million, and fireworks go off! (OB; a few tracking problems; AS1.8)
4. From 1986; Bill & Cheryl vs. David & Jane; Bill & Cheryl win $1 million, again with fireworks! (OB, CD3C.1)
5. From 1986; Michael & Andrea vs. Ken & Judee; begins at first round; Michael & Andrea win $1 million! (OB, JO1.3)
6. From 1986; Dan & Laureen vs. David & Peggy; Dan & Laureen win $1 million, literally, at the last second! The most exciting $1 million win ever! (OC, semi-mediocre video; AS4.15)
7. From 1986; Larry & Mollie vs. Phil & Jean Ann; Larry & Mollie win $1 million! (OB, RR2C.4)
8. From 1987; Jay & Judy vs. Dave & Penny; Jay & Judy win $1 million! (OB, DB1.2)
9. From 1987; Rick & Rita vs. Richard & Pat; Rick & Rita go for $1 million; mediocre video (OB, PB2E.2)
10. From 1987; Bob & Judith vs. Bobby & Diane; Bob & Judith win $1 million! (OC, CD2.13)
ALL-STAR BLITZ (Peter Marshall) - Mediocre game combining Hollywood Squares, Battlestars and Wheel of Fortune. (2 episodes)
1. From April 8, 1985; Premiere; Leslie Uggams, John Byner, Abby Dalton, Robert Mandan; first game: Tim vs. Colleen (OC, RR3H.4)
2. 16 minutes of a 1985 episode; Stuart Damon, Abby Dalton, Tom Poston, Rose Marie; Cap vs. Kathy (OC, JD2E.5)
ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER? (Jeff Foxworthy) - The show where you'll strike it rich if you know everything every 10-year-old needs to know. (6 episodes)
1. From March 29, 2007; first contestant: Pat, who becomes the first contestant to flunk out! (OC)
2. From April 19, 2007; first contestant: Alex, who wins $500,000! (OC)
3. From April 26, 2007; first contestant: John, who wins $500,000! Opening missing (OC, BMN1.14)
4. From May 10, 2007; first contestant: Steve, who ends up going for the million dollar question! (OC)
5. From May 10, 2007; first contestant: Steve vs. MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION (OC)
6. From February 7, 2008; first contestant: Meghen, who goes for the million dollar question! (OC, SBXLII.2)
BANK ON THE STARS (Bill Cullen) - An early and rare game that tested your memory on movie clips.
1. First contestants: Joyce Collins and John Rosen; Roger Price makes a guest appearance (KIN, video goes out midway through for a minute; TMS4.3)
BATTLESTARS (Alex Trebek) - Another example of a game show styled like another, this one was like Heatter-Quigley's own Hollywood Squares, but with triangles and a space environment. (3 episodes)
1. From December 25, 1981; Todd Bridges, Nancy McKeon, Richard Simmons, Skip Stephenson, Nell Carter, Richard Kiel; first game: Russ vs. Battlestars Two (OB, RRXMAS.3)
2. From April 4, 1983; the return episode; Erik Estrada, Debbie Reynolds, Tom Wopat, Jimmy (JM J.) Bullock, Glen Scarpelli, Vicki Lawrence; first game: Scott vs. Deborah (OC, TMS3.12)
3. Final episode from July 1, 1983; Charles Nelson Reilly, Betty White, Candy Clark, Jimmy Bullock, Stuart Damon, Mary Crosby; first game: Wesley vs. Leslie; $10,000 win (OC, CD4C.1)
BEAT THE CLOCK - One of the first successful game shows centered around performing wacky stunts, and certainly one of the best. (6 episodes)
BUD COLLYER - "America's #1 Clock Watcher" held that title very well.
1. From December 27, 1952; first contestants: Mr. and Mrs. Christenson (GSN, RR2H.1)
2. From March 1956; 6th birthday show; $18,000 bonus stunt win (GSN, TMS12.11)
3. From September 15, 1956; the last episode sponsored by Fresh deodorant; $64,000 Super Bonus stunt won! (GSN, TMS3.6)
4. From the late 1950s; $21,000 bonus stunt win (GSN, TMS12.12)
JACK NARZ - Everybody's favorite wacky stunt show, now in color!
5. From 1971; couples: George and Audrey, Howard and Ruth; guest: Tom Kennedy (GSN, JL1.5)
GENE WOOD - Later on, the series moved north of the border.
6. First couple: Dave and Barbara; guest: Dick Clark; last few seconds missing (GSN, TAPE9.4)
THE BETTER SEX (Bill Anderson, Sarah Purcell) - Silly game where men and women compete against each other in a battle of the sexes. (3 episodes)
1. Pilot; part of open cut and blurry video (SM, GP1.1)
2. Starts with George-Hank-Ernest-Richard-Curtis-Robaire ("Mean Machine") vs. the Audience; bonus win after 1 question! Jumpy video and bad edits (GSN, GP1.2)
3. Harold-Eric-Ray-Bill-Jim-Charles vs. Beverly-Jeannette-Gail-Louise-Crystal-Carolyn; the 1500th part of my collection (GSN, GP1.3)
THE BIG SHOWDOWN (Jim Peck) - An extremely rare gem that comes with: ONE... JIM... PECK! OOF! You know what I mean... (1 episode)
1. From 1975; the only existing episode; Andy vs. Diane vs. Mike; Jim trips coming down the stairs; also $5000 win! (SM, CD2.3)
BLACKOUT (Bob Goen) - Another fine Wolpert work that... longer run. (2 episodes)
1. From January 6, 1988; Charlie Seibert and Markie Post; Lisa vs. Jan (OB, AS1.1)
2. From April 1, 1988; final episode; Pat Harrington and Crystal Bernard; Ande vs. Ken; Jay Stewart announces (his last work); $10,000 win; Bob and players sing "Auld Lang Syne" before closing credits (OB, CD4C.3)
BLANKETY BLANKS (Bill Cullen) - Dull puzzle game whose saving graces are its host and theme song. (1 episode)
1. From April 21, 1975; Premiere; with Anne Meara and William Shatner; Bill vs. Kathy (SM, JD4.2)
BLOCKBUSTERS - The show where it pays to "make the connection." (8 episodes)
BILL CULLEN - The only show that pits two against one.
1. From December 18, 1980; first game: Donna vs. Gold Rush; two $5000 wins; PRISTINE VIDEO QUALITY (OC, JD4.3)
2. From April 23, 1981; first game: Marie vs. Pat & Russ; features a nail-biting Gold Run win (GSN, CB99.3)
3. From September 30, 1981; first game: Jayne vs. Pat & Liz McCarthy; the McCarthy's cross $100,000 total (GSN, GSN2.7)
4. From October 2, 1981; first game: Melinda vs. Pat & Liz McCarthy; the McCarthy's reach the $120,000 pinnacle (GSN, GSN2.8)
5. From February 9, 1982; first game: Ed vs. Vicki & Deb (GSNC)
6. From April 21, 1982; first game: John Hatten vs. Stephanie and Mark; John Hatten wins $120,000; mediocre video (GSN, SW7.3)
7. Series Finale from April 23, 1982; first game: Marge vs. Nina & Kim; $5000 win, and Gene Vissich returns for the final game; ends with some stats read by Bill at the end (GSN, CD2.7)
BILL RAFFERTY - The two-against-one format was abolished and Rafferty was no Cullen. But the set was neat, and the music, while not as good as the previous theme, was still decent.
8. Series Finale from May 1, 1987; first game: Patti vs. Pete; Classic Concentration contestant plug; rough video (OC, PB1C.3)
BODY LANGUAGE (Tom Kennedy) - Charades with a twist! (7 episodes)
1. From June 4, 1984; Series Premiere; Vicki Lawrence and Jamie Farr; Jean vs. Gary; $10,000 win (GSN, JLP1.1)
2. From 1984; Karen Kelly and Anson Williams; Markita vs. Ken; $10,000 win (GSN, GSN1.9)
3. From December 28, 1984; last day of Christmas Celebrity Week with Lucille Ball, Robert Morse, Isabel Sanford and Richard Simmons; New Year's celebration at the end (GSNC, RRXMAS.4)
4. From January 1985; Mary Ann Mobley and Tim Topper; Deborah vs. Jim; $10,000 win (GSNC, GSN4.2)
5. From March 29, 1985; Martha Smith and Ed Begley Jr.; Faith vs. BUTCH HARTMAN (creator of the Fairly Odd Parents and Danny Phantom); $9000 win (GSNC, JL1.3)
6. From April 1, 1985; Vicki Lawrence and Charles Nelson Reilly; Butch Hartman vs. Faith; Butch's last appearance on the show; CNR mentions his 25th anniversary with Goodson-Todman; $5000 win (GSNC, JL1.4)
7. From January 3, 1986; Series Finale; Vicki Lawrence and Ted Lange; Janus vs. Scott; $6000 win (GSN, JH1.14)
BREAK THE BANK (Tom Kennedy) - A star-studded game of hide-and-seek which deserved a longer run, if it wasn't for the growing popularity of soap operas...or a certain F.S. (2 episodes)
1. Premiere from April 12, 1976; Abe Vigoda, Alice Ghostley, Jo Ann Pflug, Dick Gautier, Jan Murray, Lynda Carter, Liz Torres, Robert Hegyes, Marjoe Gortner; first game: Marlee vs. Ralph; $5000 bank broken; part of open and credits cut off, and bad tracking in spots (GSN, JO1.10)
2. From 1976; Anson Williams, Lee Meriwether, Liz Torres, Alex Karras, Jan Murray, Ja'net Dubois, Sandy Duncan, Tom Bosley, Pat McCormick; first game: Dixie vs. Fred; $5500 bank broken (GSN, JL1.2)
BREAK THE BANK (Gene Rayburn) - How did he end up with this mess in the first place? (1 episode)
1. From September 19, 1985; Ron and Gale vs. Merv and Cynthia; Prize Vault features a Michael Jackson lookalike, Charles Nelson Reilly, and a mime; $23,000+ bank win! (OC, AS6.1)
BULLSEYE (Jim Lange) - A great game where daring decides the game! (7 episodes)
Civilian Bullseye
1. 1979 Pilot; Scott vs. Gale; $1,000,000 top prize possible! Mediocre video (SM, SW5.5)
2. From 1980; first game: Helen vs. Donald; Helen wins a car (GSN, PB2D.4)
3. From 1980; first game: Scott vs. Bonus Island; bonus win (GSN, JD6.2)
4. From 1980; first game: Chuck vs. Jill (GSNC, MW7.2)
5. From 1980; first game: Leon vs. Stephe; mediocre video (CBN, TMS9.9)
6. From 1981; first game: Judy vs. Bonus Island; last civilian episode (USA, GG1.1)
Celebrity Bullseye
7. From 1982; First game: Ernest Borgnine vs. Suzy Chaffee (GSN, OCT97.10)
BUMPER STUMPERS (Al DuBois) - Challenging game filled with vanity license plates. (1 episode)
1. Premiere; first game: Peter & Steve vs. Kate & Scott; bonus win (GSN, VM3.4)
CAESAR'S CHALLENGE (Ahmad Rashad) - Take away the glitz of Las Vegas, and you have just another fun word game. (6 episodes)
1. Pilot; Laurel vs. Scott vs. Leanna; mediocre video (OB?, TMS9.8)
2. From June 14, 1993; series premiere; Scott vs. Trudy vs. J.P.; opening missing, VCR counter (OC, NJ1B.3)
3. Tom Gauer vs. Lynee vs. John (OB, mediocre quality, AS1.6)
4. From 1993; Babette vs. Mike vs. Heather; features a seemingly risque first category (OB, AS1.3)
5. From the next day; Babette vs. Gordon vs. Ashley; features a car win! Also, Ahmad assists Dan Doherty in revealing the bonus letters (OB, AS1.4)
6. From the next day; David vs. Betsy vs. J.D.; the balloons from the day before were left on the stage! (OB, AS1.5)
CAMOUFLAGE (Don Morrow) - Can you find the predetermined object in the picture?
1. From January 1962; Johnny Gilbert sub-hosts; anniversary show; first game: Marita vs. Bette (KIN, TMS12.10)
2. From Spring 1962; first game: Margaret vs. Patricia (KIN, TMS12.9)
CARD SHARKS - The classic game of highs and lows. (19 episodes)
JIM PERRY - The best version; best host, best set, and best theme.
1. Recorded March 17, 1978; Pilot 1; JACK CAMPION vs. Pam (SM, RR2E.2)
2. Recorded March 17, 1978; Pilot 2; Judith vs. Johnny (SM, RR2E.3)
3. From April 24, 1978; series premiere; first game: Susan vs. Mark (SM, JL3.1)
4. From May 2, 1978; first game: Royce vs. Sue Ann; Jim renames "R2D2," G2T2 (GSN, FF25.9)
5. From June 1, 1978; first game: Corinne vs. Chris (GSN, JLP1.4)
6. From July 28, 1978; first game: Jim vs. Patricia; first home viewer poem is read (GSN, RR2B.1)
7. From September 21, 1978; first game: Kris vs. Bernd (GSN, JLP1.2)
8. From October 24, 1978; first game: Mike vs. Sherri (GSN, GSN1.3)
9. From October 31, 1978; first game: Becky vs. (Willie) Boston (GSNC, PB2C.3)
10. From November 1, 1978; first game: Boston vs. Diana; Norma Brown wins $28,800 (GSN, GG1.2)
11. From December 13, 1978; first game: Linda vs. Kathy (GSN, JLP1.3)
12. From February 14, 1979; first game: Judy vs. Dave (GSNC)
13. From April 11, 1980; first game: Irene vs. Cynthia; Bob Hilton announces; a clip of the shuffling of the cards is shown (GSN, JLP1.5)
14. From 1980; Young Players Week; first game: Mike vs. Dawn (OC, JL2.5)
15. From October 23, 1981; series finale; first game: Michelle vs. Denise; great close (GSN, GG1.3)
BOB EUBANKS - Well, at least the stakes were raised and a car was added.
16. From January 6, 1986; CBS premiere; first game: Daryl vs. Mitch; first few seconds missing; contestant plug (OC, NJ1B.2)
17. From 1986; first game: Louise vs. Steve (GSN, FF25.10)
18. From 1986; Jeanne vs. Maria (GSNC)
19. From March 31, 1989; series finale; first game: Ray vs. Pam; Bob gets emotional at the end; also, Bob Boden is one of the 10 businessmen polled! Contestant plug, heaven knows why (OB, GG1.4)
CATCH 21 (Alfonso Ribeiro, Mikki Padilla) - GSN's best original, with a good on-air cast, bright contestants, a retooled Gambit game, and a great top prize. (1 episode)
1. From July 1, 2009; Alex vs. Larry Toffler vs. Robert (GSN, RR5M.4)
CHAIN REACTION - One word leads to another! (3 episodes)
BILL CULLEN - Despite a shoddy time slot, an odd scoring format, and an ever-changing bonus round, the original show wasn't too bad.
1. From January 20, 1980; Series Premiere: Joyce Bulifant, Fred Grandy, Patty Duke, Nipsey Russell; first game: Candace vs. Pat (GSN, TMS1.7)
2. From June 20, 1980; Series Finale; Betty White, Ron Silver, Joyce Bulifant, Jay Johnson; first game: Sarah vs. Arnie; celebrities play the bonus game for charity at the end (OB, AS1.10)
GEOFF EDWARDS - Though the number of players, payoffs and set quality went down, the show was still expertly hosted.
3. Maria vs. Alexis (USA, TMS12.13)
THE CHALLENGERS (Dick Clark) - The best of the infamous "Not-So-Fab Five" from 1990, where it pays to stay informed! (5 episodes)
1. From September 3, 1990; daily premiere; Charley vs. Doak vs. Toni (OB, NJ1B.1)
2. From September 17, 1990; Mary vs. Tone vs. Doug (OB, TMS11.8)
3. From September 18, 1990; Toni vs. Doug vs. Chick (OB, TMS11.9)
4. From November 8, 1990; Holly vs. Gary vs. Stan; part of opening missing; mediocre video (OC, TMS9.10)
5. From April 1, 1991; Mike vs. Kurt vs. Meredith; features gag subjects after the sprint round and an appearance by judge Gary Johnson (OB, AS3.17)
CHILD'S PLAY (Bill Cullen) - The gameplay wasn't the best, but the show was cute, and that's what matters most. (3 episodes)
1. From September 20, 1982; Series Premiere: Dawn vs. Trudi (GSN, RR1A.9)
2. From September 22, 1982; Jay vs. Terri; $5000 win (GSN, JD4.4)
3. From September 16, 1983; Series Finale: Pam vs. Patricia; $5000 win (OC, RR3B.4)
CONCENTRATION - America's favorite memory game. (22 episodes)
HUGH DOWNS - In simpler times, Concentration was extremely popular.
1. Date unknown; Walter vs. Robert; tape counter on bottom throughout (KIN, JD1.3)
JACK NARZ - The show was now syndicated, produced on the West Coast, and on loan from NBC.
2. From 1978; Linda vs. Randy; the board has occasional problems! (SM, GG2.6)
CLASSIC CONCENTRATION (Alex Trebek) - America's favorite memory game, better than ever!
3. From May 4, 1987; series premiere; first game: Diana vs. David; mediocre quality; first few seconds missing (OB, GG1.10)
4. From May 5, 1987; first game: Russ vs. Diana; car win; video goes out briefly during second game (OB, JF11.2)
5. From May 6, 1987; first game: Todd vs. Su; car win (OB, JF11.3)
6. From May 13, 1987; first game: Jason vs. Renee; audience game played at the end (OB, DCL1.8)
7. From May 14, 1987; first game: Jason vs. Susan; Jason finally wins the car (OB, JF2.3)
8. From May 15, 1987; first game: Paula vs. Linwood (OB, JF16.4)
9. From May 22, 1987; first game: Barry vs. Jan; car win; mediocre video (OC, JF11.4)
10. From May 25, 1987; first game: Monica vs. Barry; car win (OB, RR1A.12)
11. From June 12, 1987; first game: Doug vs. Laverne; second puzzle solved with only 4 pieces revealed! (OB, TMS1.9)
12. From late 1987; first game: Glenn vs. Sandra; 2 contestant plugs (OB/RPT; AS1.2)
13. From December 30, 1987; first game: Jackson vs. Dorothy; 2 contestant plugs (OC, JD5.4)
14. From October 31, 1988; Halloween episode (with everyone in costume); Lana vs. Ed; car win (SKY, JF8.1)
15. From April 10, 1990; Lance vs. Wendy (OC, PB3.4)
16. From April 11, 1990; Wendy vs. Sean (OC, PB3.5)
17. From May 4, 1990; Cinco de Mayo episode (y su tercero aniversario tambien); Senor Trebek enters wearing a sombrero; Larry vs. Gabe; car win; C&C at the end (OC, JF4.4)
18. From June 20, 1990 (my 7th birthday!); Carrie vs. Jeff; contestant plug blooper (OC, JF8.2)
19. From 1991; first game: Joy vs. Mark; Car win (OB, video problems; BMN1.2)
20. From 1991; 1000th episode; first game: Joy (different from above) vs. Dave; Car win, and C&C at the end (RPT, CD1.13)
21. From 1991; first game: Ben vs. Susan; Ben deliberately loses the first bonus game for more prizes; first few seconds missing; bad commercial edits (OB, VM2.6)
22. From September 20, 1991; Final (unmentioned) episode; first game: Bob vs. Amy; though it's not mentioned, you can tell it's the final episode, the way Alex and the contestants behave! Also car win! (RPT, first few seconds missing; GG2.7)
COUCH POTATOES (Marc Summers) - If you watch enough television, this game is for you. (2 episodes)
1. Mod Squad vs. Bosom Buds; special guest: Gary Coleman; $5000 win (OC, TMS11.6)
2. Sweathogs vs. Knots Landing; special guest: Steve Allen (USA, TMS11.7)
THE CROSS-WITS (Jack Clark) - I'll go with 4 Across! (1 episode)
1. 8-minute clip of the third episode; with Conny Van Dyke, Greg Morris, Meredith MacRae and Ron Masak (SM, CD4B.5)
DEAL OR NO DEAL (Howie Mandel) - The "calculatus eliminatus" of game shows, where you find out what you'd win by finding out what you don't! Did I mention there was a banker who made deals? Or 26 hot and beautiful girls? Or Howie Mandel? (5 episodes)
1. From December 19, 2005; Series Premiere; first player: Karen Vann vs. 26 cases (OC, RR1B.10)
2. From April 16, 2007; first player: Debbie Montgomery vs. 11 cases (OC, credits missing, BMN1.13)
3. From May 7, 2007; 100th episode; first player: Brooks Leach vs. 26 cases; features guest appeareances by Jay Leno, Regis Philbin, Ozzy Osbourne and others, and 67 former contestants in the audience! (OC)
4. From August 25, 2008; 4th season premiere; aspiring Broadway star Kashka Blackburn goes for the million (OC, XHM100.5)
5. From September 1, 2008; mother-to-be Jessica Robinson becomes the show's first millionaire! (OC, MNF500.9)
DEALER'S CHOICE (Bob Hastings) - Obscure show featuring every well-known gambling element imaginable. (1 episode)
1. From 1974; Liz vs. Dick vs. Linda; first few minutes missing (SM, CD4C.5)
DOTTO (Jack Narz) - The first quiz show found to be rigged, though certainly not the last. (2 episodes)
1. First game: Marie Winn vs. Yeffe; Marie was given all the answers; counter throughout and bright video in spots (KIN, GP1.7)
2. First game: Connie Hines vs. John (KIN, GP1.6)
DOUBLE DARE (Alex Trebek) - No physical challenges, gak or slime here, just a bunch of isolation booths. (12 episodes)
1. From December 13, 1976; Series Premiere; first game: Janna vs. Barry (GSN, GG1.13)
2. From December 16, 1976; first game: Garry vs. Joel; $5000 win (GSNC, CB99.5)
3. From December 17, 1976; first game: Joel vs. Gail (GSNC, CB99.6)
4. From December 20, 1976; first game: Joel vs. Randy (GSNC, CB99.7)
5. From December 21, 1976; first game: Joel vs. Spoilers (GSNC, CB99.8)
6. From December 24, 1976; first game: Roger vs. Chuck; Alan Lusher's first episode; $5000 win (GSN, occasional tracking problems and fuzzy fideo; JP1.1)
7. From December 28, 1976; first game: Alan Lusher vs. Tony; contestant and ticket plugs (SM, CD2.9)
8. From December 29, 1976; first game: Alan Lusher vs. Kathy; $5000 win (GSN, GG2.10)
9. From 1977; first game: Michael vs. Spoilers; $5000 win (GSN, RR1A.1)
10. From February 1977; first game: Ray vs. Bob; Ray Winston and Alex trade places during opening (GSN, CD3B.1)
11. From 1977; first game: Carole vs. Rosemary; part of opening cut off; Patty Duke Astin appears; $5000 win (GSNC, JO1.15)
12. From April 29, 1977; Series Finale; first game: Ilene vs. Andy; $5000 win (GSN, CD1.6)
DOUBLE DARE (Marc Summers) - No doubt about it, the best children's game show ever.
DOUBLE TALK (Henry Polic II) - An interesting "contest program" (game show) from "Dunk-For-Apples/Movie Legend Jimmy" (Bob Stewart); though he was player-friendly, Henry was a "second-rate emcee" (mediocre host), but the show still had a great "subject musical work" (theme song). (2 episodes)
1. Series premiere from August 18, 1986; guests: Betty White and Stuart Damon; Babs vs. Alice; $10,000 win (GSN, TMS6.1)
2. Series finale from December 19, 1986; guests: Marcia Wallace and Jamie Farr; Pat vs. Amy; mediocre video and VCR counter (OC, RR4B.3)
DREAM HOUSE - The only show where couples could win not just a room of furniture, but an entire house! (2 episodes)
MIKE DARROW
1. First game: Doyle & Pam vs. Susan & Jerry; the champions are not present because they had a baby (KIN, GP1.8)
BOB EUBANKS
2. From April 4, 1983; Series premiere; Gary & Vicki vs. Don & Joanne; blurry video (OC, NJ1B.4)
3. From June 29, 1984; Series finale; Curt & Mary vs. Steve & Louisa; HOUSE WIN (OC, RR4B.1)
EYE GUESS (Bill Cullen) - The show that tested your photographic memory.
1. Only fully existing episode; first game: Mildred at bonus; jumpy video in first portion (GSN, GP1.9)
2. The first half of a later episode; first game: Jan at bonus; car win; low audio (KIN, GP1.10)
FACE THE MUSIC (Ron Ely) - A musical quiz with a visual twist... or is it a celebrity-identifying game with a musical twist? "I GOT IT!" It's both! BTW, the theme song is great. (3 episodes)
1. From 1980; John vs. Sherry vs. Michael; champion: Mike; mystery face: George Hamilton; "Face the Music" is the answer to the last round two puzzle (FAM, DCL1.1)
2. From 1980; Craig vs. Debbie vs. John; champion: Karen; mystery face: Shaun Cassidy (USA, TMS5.2)
3. From 1980; Mike vs. Shirley vs/ Robert; champion: Lucie; mystery face: Fred Astaire (USA, TMS5.3)
FAMILY CHALLENGE (Ray Combs) - Mediocre-at-best hour with families competing in a series of silly stunts for a trophy. (1 episode)
1. From October 6, 1995; Miranda vs. Drager (OC, RR3G.3)
FAMILY FEUD - Survey SAYS! One of the all-time greatest games.
Now with its own section!
FIGURE IT OUT (Summer Sanders) - One of Nickelodeon's last great shows, an update of I've Got a Secret that features kids with hidden talent. (5 episodes)
CELEBRITY LEGEND: DT - Danny Tambarelli; LBD - Lori Beth Denberg; KK - Kevin Kopelow
CLASSIC STYLE
1. From 1997; Phil Moore, Amanda Bynes, DT, Jenna Leigh Green; first contestant: Brad (GAS, JF3.4)
2. From 1997; KK, Preslaysa Edwards, DT, LBD; first contestant: Heather (GAS, JF6D.1)
3. From 1998; Moira Quirk, Irene Ng, DT, LBD; first contestant: Ron; jumpy video at times (GAS, JF6D.2)
FAMILY STYLE
4. From 1998; KK, Michelle Trachtenberg, Robert Richard, LBD; first contestants: Sam, Marisa & their grandpa (GAS, JF6D.3)
WILD STYLE
5. From 1999; KK, Amanda Bynes, Tara Lipinski, Christy Knowings; first contestant: Chuckie (GAS, JF6D.4)
FINDERS KEEPERS - This is a fun show whose title can be followed by "Losers Weepers". FIND IT! (5 episodes)
WESLEY EURE - The original set was the best, but they needed to "find" a better host.
1. Premiere from 1987; Cathy and Tim vs. Lacey and Justin; the game ends in a tie, and the suspense just keeps heightening! (NICK, fuzzy video, first few seconds missing; JP2.2)
2. From 1987; Tia and Ryan vs. Scott and Andrea; Harvey appears as a mummy and at the end, irons himself! Also, Romp win in record time! (GAS, AS3.9)
3. From 1987; Harold and Amanda vs. Megan and Rob; features Exercise room; exciting last-second Romp win (GAS, CD4A.2)
4. Steve and Alisa vs. Ralph and Leslie (GAS, VM1.14)
LARRY TOFFLER - Well, they got a better host, but the tradeoff was a not-quite-as-good set; at least the layout of the house remained the same.
5. From 1988; Kevin & Gina vs. Daniel & Kelly; one team wins $975 (GAS, TMS6.8)
FUN HOUSE (J.D. Roth) - Another great kids' show, with an enthusiastic young host, and some really awesome twin sisters! (18 episodes)
1. From 1988; Pilot; Jaimie & Danny vs. Rachel & Douglas; $25,000+ win! (SM, JP3.4)
2. From September 4, 1988: 1-Hour World Premiere; guests: Staci Keanan, Danny Ponce, Danny Pintauro, Soleil Moon Frye; first game: Staci and Israel vs. Ponce and Tara, contestant and ticket plugs; Power Prize win! (OC, AS3.8)
3. From 1988; Claire & Howard vs. Jason & Nancy; one player spends all but 4 seconds in the fun house! From WUAB (OC, DCL2.1)
4. From November 1988; Thanksgiving episode; Heather & Kurt vs. Evelyn & Andy; Power Prize win (OB, RR2C.3)
5. From 1988; Chocolate Day; Becky and Josh vs. Phillip and Sonja; occasional video problems and in-and-out audio; first few seconds missing (OB, BMN1.11)
6. From December 23, 1988; Christmas episode; Sam & Jon vs. Jimmy & Elisabeth, with J.D. dressed as Santa Claus for the first stunt! (OB, DB1.3)
7. From 1989; New York Day; guests: Soleil Moon Frye and Jeremy Miller; Soleil & Matthew vs. Jeremy & Malia; first few and last few seconds missing (OC, DCL1.5)
8. From February 1989; Salute to New England (Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont); Pam & Adam vs. David & Barbie (OC, CJC1.2)
9. From 1989; an early second season episode; Amanda & Josh vs. Enoch & Shauna; part of opening cut off; last-second Power Prize win! (OC, CD3C.2)
10. From 1989; Alexis & Anthony vs. Tiefa & Michael, with tracking problems; Power Prize win (OC, RR1A.7)
11. From 1989; Monie & Wesley vs. Lauren & Jared; opening missing, and video jumps (OC, RR3B.1)
12. From 1989; Nicole and Jonathan vs. Steve and Kristin; first few and last few seconds missing (OC, GG2.8)
13. From December 14, 1989; Steve and Jill vs. Fernando and Erika; end credits cut off (OC, AS2.14)
14. From December 15, 1989; Mara and Ian vs. Brandon and Maggie; Power Prize win (OC, CD2.12)
15. From December 18, 1989: Tiffany and Brian vs. Pokey and Carrie; first few and last few seconds missing (OC, TMS1.4)
16. From December 19, 1989; Erica & Brian vs. Alan & Linea; end credits cut off (OC, AS4.14)
17. From December 20, 1989; Carissa & Craig vs. Sonja & Joel; Power Prize win (OC, DCL2.2)
18. From December 25, 1989: Christmas episode; Danielle and John vs. Ryan and Stacy; main game blowout; mediocre video and part of open cut off (OB, JO1.4)
GAMBIT (Wink Martindale) - A quiz show where the outcome is literally in the cards. Yeah, I hear you; some of my puns aren't any better than Wink's, though some others are. (3 episodes)
CBS GAMBIT
1. From 1974; first game: Livingston vs. Ferraro; car win in second Gambit Board game (SM, AS6.3)
LAS VEGAS GAMBIT
2. First game: O'Neill vs. Gambit Board; mediocre commercial edits (OB, MW4.2)
3. Finale; repeat of Singles Week; first game: Nessa & Leon vs. Ray & Janice (OB, JD2D.2)
GAMESHOW MARATHON (Ricki Lake) - A fun way to honor one of our favorite genres! (7 episodes)
******* The entire 7-show series (all OC)
GET THE MESSAGE - A hard-to-find Password-esque game, where two clues are given at a time. (2 episodes)
Frank Buxton
1. From 1964; Peggy Cass & Phyllis Newman vs. Orson Bean & Howard Keel; first game: Ellen vs. Wilson (GSN, JD1.4)
Robert Q. Lewis
2. Final episode from December 25, 1964; with Arlene Francis, Barbara Cook, Douglas Fairbanks, Marty Ingels; first game: Joan Fontaine vs. Mitch Miller (GSN, MW7.1)
GET THE PICTURE (Mike O'Malley) - A fun way to revive the old-fashioned photograph identification format. (5 episodes)
1. From 1991; Kristy & Nick vs. Heather & Connor; bonus win (GAS, JF13.1)
2. Paul and Natalie vs. Matt and Jamie (GAS, JF3.1)
3. Jimmy and Kanika vs. Tyson and Desirae; Tyson stumbles during a Power Surge, and you decide what Mike says in reaction! Also, bonus win! (GAS, DB1.7)
4. Laurie and Fred vs. Belinda and Jason; features a funny answer to a question about Batman and Robin! Also, bonus win! (GAS, last few seconds missing; DB1.8)
5. Mindy and Nicholas vs. Elizabeth and Brian; Marc Summers appears at the beginning; video problem during the first Power Surge (GAS, CD4A.5)
GIVE-N-TAKE (Jim Lange) - So-so game that involved a spinning arrow and lots of prizes; at least the theme song was good. (1 episode)
1. From September 26, 1975; Gina vs. Susan vs. Judy vs. Ann; blurry video and funny slate (SM, AS6.4)
GO! (Kevin O'Connell) - A...great...game...with...a...lot...of...teamwork (3 episodes)
1. From October 3, 1983; premiere; Elaine Joyce vs. Richard Kline; CANNOT BURN TO DVD (GSN; AS1.11)
2. From January 19, 1984; Didi Conn vs. Charlie Seibert with double jackpot win; CANNOT BURN TO DVD (GSN; AS1.12)
3. From January 20, 1984; series finale; Didi Conn vs. Charlie Seibert (GSN; AS1.13)
THE GONG SHOW (Chuck Barris) - OK, so it wasn't good as a game show, but was great as a comedy show! (4 episodes)
1. Judges: Arte Johnson, J.P. Morgan, Steve Garvey; features Paul Reubens, one half of the Sensational Sound Group (GSN, GG1.12)
2. From 1977; "It's Not Lin Bolen Day"; judges: Arte Johnson, J.P. Morgan, Steve Martin (GSN, from 50 Greatest Games; JP2.4)
3. From July 6, 1978; judges: Gary Mule Deer, Michele Lee, Pat McCormick; Michael Winslow is one of the acts (GSN, RR4I.3)
4. From July 21, 1978; Series Finale, and one of Chuck's Fables: hosted by Larry "Fenwick" Gotterer; judges: Carl Ballantine, Patty Andrews, Jamie Farr; the final segment features Gene-Gene the Dancing Machine... and J.P. Morgan! (GSN, JH1.12)
GREED (Chuck Woolery) - Sure, this dangerous and scary show may have been a Millionaire clone, but at least it had its share of fans, among other aspects. (1 episode)
1. From February 11, 2000; first team: Dana/Patrick/Jennifer/Forest vs. $500,000 decision; all the players on the second team are from Las Vegas, Nevada; Curtis Warren wins $1 MILLION! (GSN, MS1.11)
GUTS - Do you have it? GUTS! (9 episodes)
NICKELODEON GUTS (Mike O'Malley, Moira Quirk)
1. From 1992; A.J. MacLean (future Backstreet Boy) vs. Amanda vs. Jamie (GAS, RR3B.2)
2. From 1992; Christina vs. Jose vs. Kelli; perfect game (GAS, JF6E.1)
3. From 1993; Stephanie vs. Tabatha vs. Tommy (GAS, JF3.2)
4. From 1993; Peach vs. Jen vs. J.R.; perfect game (GAS, JF6E.2)
5. From 1994; Kathy vs. Mike vs. Ryan (GAS, JF13.2)
6. From 1994; Robin vs. Jennifer vs. Bobby (GAS, JF6E.2)
MY FAMILY'S GOT GUTS (Ben Lyons, Asha Kuerten)
7. From September 15, 2008; Premiere; Sherry Storm vs. Chastain Charge (OB, JF6E.4)
8. From September 24, 2008; second semifinal; Eichen-Splat vs. Howlin' Howells (OC)
9. From September 27, 2008; The Aggro Bowl; Cyclone Jones vs. Howlin' Howells vs. Gahres G-Dogs (OC)
HE SAID, SHE SAID (Joe Garagiola) - The show that would eventually become Tattletales. (1 episode)
1. From 1970; Anne and Bert Convy vs. Carol Rossen and Hal Holbrook vs. E.G. Peeker and Bob Zamfino vs. Loretta and Dick Clark (GSN, JL2.2)
HIGH ROLLERS - The game where skill, strategy, sabotage and the unpredictable dice are the elements. (5 episodes)
ALEX TREBEK - Sometimes, Alex was one of the other elements.
1. From 1978; first game: Daphne vs. Gene; Gene wins over $42,000! (SM, video glitch early on; JH1.11)
2. From December 31, 1979; first game: Jane vs. Donna; Alex explains why he and the models are in formal wear; Jane was on the last episode of Match Game 76; Auld Lang Syne plays at the end (OB, CJC2.4)
3. From March 19, 1980; first game: Marianne vs. Cheryl (OC, MW4.3)
4. From June 20, 1980; Series Finale; first game: Richard vs. Betty; features Alex's strange behavior (OC, CD2.1)
WINK MARTINDALE - Trebek may have been the better host, but the Winker's version was quite interesting as well.
5. From January 25, 1988; first game: Cheryl vs. John (SM, RR2C.5)
HISTORY IQ (Marc Summers) - A fascinating quiz show from the glory days of the History Channel. (3 episodes)
1. From 2000; Stephanie vs. Robert vs. Allan; $25,000 win (HIST, MS1.9)
2. From 2000; Catherine vs. Michael vs. Bill; $25,000 win (HIST, MS1.12)
3. Second Season Premiere from 2001; $250,000 Tournament Preliminary Game; Teacher's Week; Len vs. Girard vs. Andrew; $5000 win (HIST, MS1.13)
HIT MAN (Peter Tomarken) - A cult favorite with a unique "lecture and quiz" format, but the best was yet to come for the host... (4 episodes)
1. Ray/Marianne/Mel vs. Beverly; subjects are American Bandstand and Custer's Last Stand (OC, RR1B.8)
2. Patricia/Fred/Patty vs. Beverly; subjects are TV Commercials and William Randolph Hearst; $10,000 win (OB, occasional video problems, part of opening cut; DB1.1)
3. From 1983; Diana/Marlin/Carol vs. Kacey; subjects are Marlon Brando and Presidents; $10,000 win; first few seconds and credits cut off, occasional video problems (OC, BMN1.5)
4. From April 1, 1983; Series Finale; Maureen/Randy West/Janet vs. Sheila; subjects are Gene Kelly and Vice Presidents; features the famous "Forget it!" contestant plug! (OC, CD4C.2)
THE HOLLYWOOD SQUARES - The classic star-studded game of X's and O's. (25 episodes)
CELEBRITY LEGEND: PL = Paul Lynde; RM = Rose Marie; GG = George Gobel; WC = Wally Cox; CW = Charley Weaver; JJB = JM J. Bullock; JR = Joan Rivers; SS = Shadoe Stevens; WG = Whoopi Goldberg; BV = Bruce Vilanch; MM = Martin Mull
1. Original 1965 Pilot with host Bert Parks; WC, RM, Morey Amsterdam, Abby Dalton, Jim Backus, Giselle Mackenzie, CW, Vera Myles, Robert Q. Lewis; rough video (KIN, NJ1A.3)
PETER MARSHALL - The supreme version of all Squares.
2. From 1971; WC, RM, Dick Smothers, Susan Saint James, PL, Marty Feldman, Jan Murray, Joan Rivers, Kent McCord; Nelson vs. Margaret; no credits (GSN, JD6.1)
3. From 1972; WC, Amanda Blake, Joey Bishop, Hugh O'Brian, PL, Karen Valentine, Harvey Korman, Sandra Dee, Doc Severinsen; from 50 Greatest (GSNC, JD2C.2)
4. Circa 1974; Demond Wilson, RM, Rich Little, Suzanne Pleshette, PL, Phyllis Diller, GG, Wayne Rogers, Anthony Newley; Hill vs. Sunny (GSN, GBA.7)
5. Circa 1976; JD, Karen Valentine, Jim Nabors, Arthur Godfrey, PL, Pearl Bailey, GG, Pam Greer, OSCAR THE GROUCH; Sam vs. Paula; Oscar is the secret square TWICE... and helps both players win! And he claims he isn't "supposed to help people!" (GSN, RR3E.1)
6. From 1977; "Storybook Squares"; Soupy Sales as Tom Edison, Connie Stevens as the Queen of Tarts, Pat Harrington as Leonardo Da Vinci, Florence Henderson as Belle Starr, Jo Anne Worley as Martha Washington, GG as Henry VII, Bill & Susan Hayes as Caesar and Cleopatra, Big Bird as himself, PL as Frankenstein; Meier vs. Saunders (GSN, bad commercial edits; JL2.4)
7. From December 31, 1979; Richard Sanders, Pia Zadora, Tom Poston, Dianne & Peggy Lennon, David Brenner, Kathy & Janet Lennon, GG, Robert Mandan, James Coco; first game: Gary vs. Barbara (OC, JH1.1)
8. From March 20, 1980; Tom Poston, RM, Earl Holliman, James Brogan, Wayland and Macklehoney, Juliet Prowse, GG, Lani O'Grady, Vincent Price; first game: J.D. vs. Cathy (OC, MW5.5)
9. From May 7, 1980; Jan Murray, Didi Conn, Skip Stephenson, Mary Crosby, Wayland and Madame, Barbara Mandrell, GG, Judy Landers, Vincent Price; first game: Bob vs. Berlina (OC, MW11.5)
10. From June 20, 1980; Series Finale; Charlie Callas, RM, Tom Poston, Marty Allen, Wayland and Madame, Michele Lee, GG, Leslie Uggams and Vincent Price; first game: Dean vs. Sue (OC, first few seconds missing; DA1.2)
JOHN DAVIDSON - This version was more like "Freestyle Squares" than anything else, and though JD struggled to keep the stars in check, his hosting was still decent at best.
11. From 1985; Pilot; Loni Anderson, Steve Landesberg, Marla Gibbs, Tony Danza, Dom DeLuise, Jackie Collins, Dick Butkus & Bubba Smith, Apollonia, Burt Reynolds; Steve vs. Karla; Johnny Carson appears (SM, JP3.1)
12. From November 28, 1986; ALF, Steven Ford, Chris Lemmon, Mindy Cohn, Fred Willard, Shirley Jones, Finola Hughes, Edwin Newman, Rip Taylor; Fred vs. DeAnn; car win; bad video (OC, TMS9.5)
13. From January 23, 1987; Soleil Moon Frye, Abby Dalton, Lee Weaver, Kim Zimmer, Richard Simmons, John Matuszak, Bernie Kopell, Janice Pennington & Dian Parkinson, RAY COMBS; features cotton candy making and exercises; George vs. Sue (USA, BMN1.12)
14. From March 6, 1987; Weird Al Yankovic, Dixie Carter, Norm Crosby, Christina Pickles, ALF, Teresa Ganzel, Justin Wilson, Tony O'Dell, Stuart Pankin; Mark vs. Pamela; ALF hosts games 2 and 3; occasional video problems (RPT, CJC3.4)
15. From April 1, 1987; Stuart Pankin, Jay Johnson and Bob, Marlon Jackson, Vikki Carr, Sarah Purcell, Dr. Joyce Brothers, Clifton Davis, David Naughton, Charlotte Rae; JD gets pranked with an April Fool joke! Greg vs. Beverly; 5-game car win! (OC, occasional video problems, end credits cut off; TMS1.5)
16. From September 16, 1987; ALF, Emma Samms, Brandon Tartikoff, Ed Begley Jr., Wil Shriner, Kim Fields, JJB, SS, Zsa-Zsa Gabor; Curt vs. Heidi; Dick Clark, Bob Eubanks, Wink Martindale, Bob Barker and Chuck Woolery make pre-taped appearances regarding Peter Piper; car win (OB, RR3E.2)
17. From November 1987; from Radio City; JJB, Lynn Redgrave, Kathie Lee & Frank Gifford, Richard Simmons, JR, Andrea Evans, The Fat Boys, SS, Roy Clark; Van (A. White) vs. Pat(ricia Sajak); the stars play the "Wheel of 4 Tunes"; both players play for a car, and one of them wins! Jumpy video at times (OB, TMS11.10)
18. From April 5, 1988; JJB, Donna Pescow, Rich Little, Todd Christensen, JR, Jackie Collins, Stephen Furst, SS, Gladys Knight; Phillip vs. Laura (USA, MW11.4)
19. From April 8, 1988; same stars as above; Steve vs. Laura (USA, TMS9.6)
20. From June 16, 1989; series finale; JJB, Rebecca Arthur, Jan Murray, Jacklyn Zeman, JR, Lee Meriwether & John Schuck, Charles Nelson Reilly, SS, Spencer Christian; Sean vs. Katrina; concludes with a very fitting ending; mediocre video (USA, RR4B.4)
TOM BERGERON - Overall, this really wasn't too bad of a revival, and it showed just how good Tom Bergeron's game show hosting really is.
21. From October 1, 1999; THE INFAMOUS "YOU FOOL!" EPISODE! Little Richard, Penn & Teller, Gilbert Gottfried, BV, WG, Mimi Kennedy, Jason Alexander, Judy Gold, Susan Sullivan; David vs. Valerie; jumpy video and low audio; first $1000 game takes the entire show; $10,000 win; NO SQUARES COLLECTION SHOULD BE COMPLETE WITHOUT THIS ONE! (OC, RR3E.3)
22. From December 10, 2002; Day 2 of Game Show Week; Kathy Griffin, Jim Lange, Jimmie Walker, Wink Martindale, PETER MARSHALL, Chuck Woolery, MM, Bob Eubanks, Charles Nelson Reilly & Brett Somers; Michael vs. Amanda; a champion retires with over $68,000 (GSN, RR2E.5)
23. From December 12, 2002; Day 4 of Game Show Week; PETER MARSHALL hosts! Same stars as above, but with TOM BERGERON in the center square; Steve vs. Diana (OC, RR3E.4)
24. From May 2003; George Lopez & Belita Moreno, Hilary Duff & Hallie Todd, Wayne Brady & mom Valerie, Pat Benatar & daughter Haley, Ellen DeGeneres & mom Betty, Carnie Wilson & mom Marilyn, Mother Love & son Jahmal, Lorenzo Lamas & mom Arlene, Doris Roberts & son Michael; Dee-Dee vs. Nicole; $25,000 win (OC, PB2A.3)
25. From June 4, 2004; Series Finale; Melissa Peterman, Vicki Lawrence as Mama, Penn & Teller, Eric Roberts, MM, Carrot Top, Lenny Clarke, French Stewart, Gilbert Gottfried; first game, Justin vs. Sondra (OC, RR1B.11)
HOT POTATO (Bill Cullen) - A challenging game where two 3-member "common bond" teams play against each other for big bucks. (3 episodes)
1. Premiere from January 23, 1984; first game: Mothers-to-Be vs. Teachers; $5000 win (GSN, JD2F.4)
2. First game: Mothers of Twins vs. Telegram Singers (GSN, JD2F.3)
3. From 1984; First game: Accountants vs. Pro Surfers (GSN, TMS3.1)
We've Only Just Begun!
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