How scripted are the game shows? As I wrote out the structure of my game shows I've come to the realization of closely being a writer helped me. Normally the process of creating a game show is designed from a writer's point of view to relay a storyline for the show's format. The quick wits and one liners are often used for sound bites that can make for a marketable brand. But I don't see those credits as much as seen in other areas. Should writers of game shows be afforded the salary, contributing credits and also listed on IMDB?
Introduce Yourself : Game shows writer credits by Michael E Wolfe
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Hi Michael E Wolfe! That's a great question. It depends on the show, but it's more scripted than you'd think. Any host will also have multiple responses/jokes for multiple situations. The thing about game shows is that while there are "writers" they're not considered a "scripted" show, so the writers may be credited as something else, and the rooms are not big. I've worked on an e-sports show as a writer, which is a little different, and have some friends who write for game shows. But if anyone reading this has some direct experience, I hope you'll chime in!
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Hey Michael, it's lovely to meet you!I have a friend that actually makes part of his living writing for game shows. But more of the quiz show variety that need questions and answers. Reality TV is also scripted, but in a different way. What you're referring to may be more similar to that, in which there is a role titles Story Producer, or field producer.
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Hi Michael - I've had the pleasure of creating and producing a few games shows and, as Emily writes, it all depends on the game show. The format is the key - and creating clear metrics of victory that are relatable, fair and entertaining. That work can be done by writers, of course, but also by producers, like me. As an example, Merv Griffin wasn't a writer but he created Jeopardy. When it comes to production, there usually is a writer or several who build and feed lines and information on the contestants to the host(s). Is a contestant is from Philadelphia, as an example, the Liberty Bell references are written in advance. Those can be full time writers, in my experience, or segment producers with a knack for it. Some of that is in question right now with the WGA strike, as it should be, but that's another topic then how game shows are produced and writing is used. The real key is the game and format itself, tho, and all else follows.
Game shows are such an underrated art form, honestly. The writing behind them is what makes everything flow—balancing entertainment, suspense, and just the right amount of drama. It’s like crafting a story but with real people and unpredictable twists. I’ve always been fascinated by how those elements come together, which is probably why I enjoy platforms like casa de apuestas It’s not exactly a game show, but it taps into that same thrill of strategy and chance. For writers here, what’s the most challenging part—keeping it fresh or adapting to unpredictable outcomes?