The 1970s and 1980s were a golden age for British television, especially when it came to game shows. These decades saw a boom in creative, entertaining, and often downright wacky formats that captured the nation’s imagination. From zany physical challenges to brain-teasing quizzes, these shows offered a perfect mix of fun, excitement, and the chance to win big. While many modern game shows have their merits, there’s something special about the charm and enthusiasm of these classic programs. Here’s a nostalgic look at 12 unforgettable British game shows from the 70s and 80s that we’d love to see make a comeback.
I had an awful lot of fun writing this list, and it brought back some great memories of Saturday nights in front of the telly with the family, watching Brucie, Anneka, and many other legendary presenters and willing but often inept contestants.
Knightmare
This children’s show combined live-action roleplay with blue screen technology. One child, wearing a helmet that blocked their vision, was guided through a dungeon by their teammates. Knightmare was groundbreaking in its use of virtual reality concepts. An updated version with modern VR technology could be spectacular. I cannot express how much I LOVED this show. My cousins and I were desperate to appear on Knightmare and applied every year, but sadly we never heard back. But it was utterly amazing and astonishing for its time. And it treated children like adults and assumed that even though we were teens, we had actual functioning braincells, which was quite remarkable for the time.
Blankety Blank
Blankety Blank was a hilarious quiz show that featured celebrities helping contestants fill in the blanks of statements. Hosted by legendary presenters like Terry Wogan and Les Dawson, the show was known for its cheeky humor and the infamous “Blankety Blank checkbook and pen” prize. The banter between the host and celebrity panel was often more entertaining than the game itself, making it a perfect family viewing experience.
The Krypton Factor
This show tested contestants’ mental and physical abilities through a series of challenging rounds. Participants faced memory tests, physical assault courses, and tricky puzzles. The Krypton Factor was unique in its comprehensive approach to testing human capabilities, making it both educational and entertaining. Its mix of brain and brawn challenges would still be captivating for today’s audiences.
Bullseye
Combining darts with general knowledge questions, Bullseye was a Sunday evening favorite. Contestants paired up with professional darts players to win prizes. The show’s catchphrases and the excitement of the darts throws made it incredibly popular. Who could forget the thrill of deciding whether to gamble for “Bully’s Special Prize”?
3-2-1
Hosted by Ted Rogers, 3-2-1 was a game show with a difference. Couples answered questions and solved clues to win prizes, but the real star was Dusty Bin, the show’s robot mascot. The complex riddles and the risk of ending up with Dusty Bin instead of a star prize added an element of suspense that kept viewers hooked. Its quirky format would be a refreshing change in today’s game show landscape.
The Adventure Game
This sci-fi themed show transported contestants to the fictional planet Arg. Participants, often celebrities, had to solve puzzles and overcome challenges set by alien inhabitants. The Adventure Game was ahead of its time, blending elements of role-playing games with traditional quiz formats. Its imaginative concept would surely appeal to modern audiences who enjoy escape rooms and interactive experiences.
Treasure Hunt
Treasure Hunt combined helicopter searches with studio-based problem-solving. I adored this show! Anneka Rice would fly around the country following clues given by contestants in the studio. The show’s mix of action, time pressure, and teamwork made for exciting viewing. In today’s world of GPS and Google Maps, a revived version could offer an interesting twist on the original concept.
Blockbusters
This quiz show pitted single contestants against pairs, answering questions based on letter-prompted topics. The hexagonal game board and the famous “Can I have a P please, Bob?” catchphrase became iconic. Blockbusters’ simple yet engaging format, along with its theme of individual versus team, would still resonate with modern viewers.
Every Second Counts
Hosted by Paul Daniels, this show required quick thinking and speedy answers. Couples competed against the clock, with every second literally counting towards their final prize. The tension built as contestants tried to bank as much time as possible for the final round. Its fast-paced nature would fit perfectly with today’s short attention spans.
The Crystal Maze
While technically starting in 1990, The Crystal Maze’s concept was born in the 80s. I triple-checked this as I was convinced this show aired first in the 80s. Even watching the early reruns, the show still feels so 80s. Teams navigated through themed zones, completing challenges to win crystals. The final challenge in the Crystal Dome was always a thrilling climax. Although it has seen revivals, a regular series with the original format would be warmly welcomed by fans old and new.
Catchphrase
“Say what you see” was the simple premise of Catchphrase. Contestants had to guess common phrases based on animated picture clues. The show’s bonus round, with its increasing jackpot, added extra excitement. Catchphrase’s visual puzzles would translate well to today’s graphics-savvy audiences.
Strike It Lucky
Strike It Lucky, hosted by the energetic Michael Barrymore, was a hit throughout the late 80s and early 90s. Contestants answered questions to move across a board of television screens, hoping to avoid the ‘hotspots’ that could end their turn. The show’s catchphrase, “Top, middle, or bottom?” became iconic as players chose their path across the board. With its perfect blend of luck, strategy, and Barrymore’s lively hosting, Strike It Lucky captured the essence of 80s game show entertainment.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
