What exactly are Forgotten 70s Game Shows?
The 1970s were a wild decade for television, and game shows were no exception. While iconic staples like Match Game, The Price Is Right, and Family Feud dominated the airwaves, dozens of inventive, chaotic, or simply bizarre shows aired quietly, only to be lost in the shuffle of pop culture.
Here are 10 forgotten 70s game shows that deserve a modern revival — or at least a little love from TV trivia nerds like us.
1. Whew! (1979–1980)
Why it’s worth remembering: A game show that felt like a fever dream — in the best way.
Hosted by Tom Kennedy, Whew! featured contestants navigating a giant game board while dodging “blocks” placed by their opponent. It had high energy, bizarre pacing, and one of the most chaotic visual presentations of any show in the decade. It was over-the-top… and kind of brilliant.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
2. The Magnificent Marble Machine (1975–1976)
Why it’s worth remembering: Imagine playing trivia to win a shot at a two-story pinball machine.
This game show, hosted by Art James, was centered around a literal giant pinball machine. Celebrities and contestants would team up to answer questions and then score bonus points by racking up pinball scores. It was more spectacle than substance — and we kind of miss that.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
3. The Money Maze (1974–1975)
Why it’s worth remembering: A game show that put trivia winners into a real-life maze.
Hosted by Nick Clooney (yes, George’s dad), this short-lived show featured contestants guiding their partners through a massive on-set maze to retrieve prize cards. It was an ambitious production that suffered from cost and scheduling — but the concept was bold and could thrive on a streaming platform today.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
4. Celebrity Sweepstakes (1974–1976)
Why it’s worth remembering: It combined trivia, betting, and a rotating cast of celebrities.
Hosted by Jim McKrell, this unique format let contestants place odds and wager on how well celebrities would answer trivia questions. It had a Vegas-like vibe, a fun meta twist, and more spontaneity than most panel-based games. It would kill on cable today.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
5. You’re Putting Me On (1971)
Why it’s worth remembering: A “truth or bluff” game that was essentially a precursor to Would I Lie to You?
Hosted by Bill Leyden, this celebrity panel show had players tell stories, with others guessing if they were telling the truth or bluffing. It was conversational, funny, and full of off-the-cuff weirdness — basically what podcast games are now built on.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
6. 3 for the Money (1975)
Why it’s worth remembering: A unique team-based trivia format that never got its due.
This show pitted teams of three against each other in fast-paced trivia rounds, with the ability to challenge or “steal” points based on strategy. It featured actor Dick Enberg as host and was one of the few shows at the time to emphasize teamwork over individual play.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
7. Second Chance (1977)
Why it’s worth remembering: It was the direct prototype for Press Your Luck.
Hosted by Jim Peck, Second Chance featured trivia questions followed by spins on a giant board — complete with cartoon “Devils” that would later evolve into the famous “Whammies.” It laid the groundwork for one of the 80s’ most iconic game shows.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
8. The Reel Game (1971)
Why it’s worth remembering: A movie trivia game hosted by Jack Barry — back from his quiz show scandal.
This game tested contestants’ film knowledge with real movie clips and trivia. Though short-lived, it was ahead of its time in using licensed media as part of gameplay. With streaming rights today, it could be easily resurrected for a film-nerd audience.
Where to stream: Nothing is currently avaialble.
9. Dealer’s Choice (1974–1975)
Why it’s worth remembering: The Vegas aesthetic in full swing — with blackjack and roulette-inspired games.
This gambling-themed show featured casino-style games with real prizes. Hosted by Jack Clark, it had a kitschy charm and game mechanics that made every episode feel like a mini trip to Reno. It’s a wonder it hasn’t been rebooted in the current casino-TV boom.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
10. All-Star Secrets (1979)
Why it’s worth remembering: Celebrities spilled secrets, and contestants had to guess who said what.
Hosted by Bob Eubanks, the show was all about celebrity gossip… long before TMZ existed. It was lightweight and fun — and would totally work in today’s influencer-driven media landscape with modern celebs or content creators.
Where to stream: Some elements can be found on YouTube.
Final Thoughts
Game shows in the 1970s didn’t hold back — and while not all of them were hits, many took creative swings we rarely see today. From giant pinball machines to trivia-based gambling, the formats were bold, weird, and wildly watchable.
If you’re looking for the next quirky reboot, these forgotten game shows from the ’70s are packed with potential — and just begging for a second chance.
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