The UK’s Top Game Shows Paying Out Cash to Contestants
Want to win some serious cash? Many British game shows offer top jackpots worth thousands of pounds. Most are games of skill – or knowledge – while others are all about luck. If you’re a quiz whizz, these shows will give you the chance to win the most cash:
UK TV Game Shows to Win the Most Cash
Pointless BBC
On the BBC’s Pointless game show, contestants choose the most obscure answer to questions. The game is played in teams of two. Before the show, every question is asked to 100 random people. Contestants have to come up with an answer that none of the 100 people did.
To win the jackpot in the final round, the contestant has to get at least guess at least one of the Pointless answers.
In that final round, contestants can choose five topics of Pointless game show questions. They are then given three sub-categories related to the topic and have to give answers in 60 seconds.
The game’s jackpot starts at £1,000, but £250 is added every time a contestant gives a “pointless” answer. The highest Pointless jackpot to date was £24,750.
Pointless is one of the most popular BBC game shows, and it’s still going strong.
The Chase
The Chase tops the list as one of the most famous game shows in the UK. It’s unique among British quiz shows because contestants face professional quizzers, called “chasers,” to win a cash prize.
Contestants have 60 seconds to answer each question. Each correct answer adds £1,000 to the prize fund. To beat the “chaser,” contestants have to move money along a board by answering questions correctly. If the casher catches up, it’s game over.
Four contestants face up against the chasers. Those who make it through the first round have to beat the chaser by providing more correct answers. If they succeed, the prize fund is split between the contestants.
The biggest solo jackpot win was £70,000 (all other contestants were wiped out). In another episode, all four contestants made it through and split a jackpot of £100,000.
The Wall Game Show UK
The Wall Game Show UK is a captivating game show that combines elements of switch unbeatable reality television, a movies puzzle orientated quiz, and the timeless charm of British game shows. This thrilling quiz show challenges contestants to showcase their knowledge and strategic thinking skills in a high-stakes environment.
The heart of the show lies in a colossal wall, filled with digital tiles that hold hidden rewards solving puzzles and penalties. Contestants must answer a series of challenging questions to earn points, carefully deciding where to place them on the wall. Every decision counts as they navigate the wall, aiming for high-scoring tiles while avoiding penalties that can deduct from their score.
What sets The Wall Game Show UK apart is the strategic twist of switch unbeatable reality television. Contestants have the power to strategically switch tiles, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement. This strategic gameplay keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, as the outcomes can make or break a contestant’s chances of success.
With its movies puzzle orientated quiz format, the show also appeals to film enthusiasts. Contestants may encounter questions about iconic movies, actors, or intriguing movie trivia from other shows, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement for both contestants and viewers.
The Wall Game Show UK truly encapsulates the essence of a thrilling British quiz show, combining strategy, knowledge, and entertainment in a mesmerizing package. Tune in for a gripping experience that will keep you guessing and cheering for your favorite celebrity contestants.
Richard Osman Game Show
Richard Osman’s House of Games is one of the many weekly UK game shows. In each of the week’s episodes, four famous contestants put their general knowledge skills to the test in a series of games:
- Buzzer games
- Individuals games
- Random games
- Pairs games
- Tablet games
- The final round
The prizes are everyday items – like driving gloves, sunglasses or shower curtains – with the game show’s logo on them.
Impossible
Impossible is one of the lesser-known quiz shows, but the format is similar to other TV quiz shows. There are three rounds:
- Round 1: Contestants are asked several multiple-choice questions. Some of the answers will be wrong, right or impossible. Impossible answers are ones that don’t make sense.
- Round 2: Contestants have to identify the impossible questions, or questions that don’t make sense.
- Round 3: Avoid the impossible answers.
Only one contestant will make it through to the final round and the chance to win the £10,000 jackpot prize.
Catchphrase
One of the best game shows of the 80s was revived in 2013. Catchphrase is all about guessing catchphrases, which can include film names and song titles, based on animations and pictures on the screen.
The game starts with three contestants. Along with the jackpot, there are also spot prizes, like festival tickets, experience days and holidays.
There’s no set amount for the jackpot. Each catchphrase that is correctly guessed will add £100 to the pot. Guessing the bonus catchphrase will add £500. In the second round, all of these amounts are doubled.
In the grand final round, there is a chance to grab the total jackpot of £50,000, but only five contestants have ever managed this.
Popular Old Game Shows
These classic UK quiz shows are worth watching for the excitement and to relive those moments when celebrities and guests took home the prize money.
Interceptor (Game Show)
The Interceptor game show had a short run in the late 80s, but it was a popular game during its stint. Contestants had to do everything they could to reach their goal whilst avoiding the “interceptor” who followed behind.
Teams of kids raced against time to meet their goal wearing heavy backpacks – one of which contained £1000 cash.
It was one of those shows that left you on the edge of your seat until the end.
Blockbusters (UK Game Show)
Blockbusters, the iconic UK game show, made a triumphant return to the TV screens, briefly merging the nostalgia of the past with a fresh twist of switch unbeatable reality television. Inspired by the classic board game, Blockbusters became a household name in the realm of British game shows.
The show follows a simple yet captivating format. Contestants form two teams and face off in a battle of wits, answering questions to progress on the iconic game board. The objective is to create a path of connected hexagons from one end to the other, while strategically blocking their opponents’ progress.
Blockbusters, with its distinct style and recognizable theme tune, captured the imagination of viewers. It had a charm reminiscent of the beloved game shows of yesteryears, and yet brought something new, fun and exciting to the table.
The show’s success can be attributed, in part, to its captivating host and TV personality. The familiar face at the helm, along with the fast-paced nature of the game, created an atmosphere that kept audiences engaged and entertained.
Blockbusters stood out from other game shows this week with its unique game board layout and the concept of forming a connected path to victory. It was an interesting departure from the standard question-and-answer format, providing an added layer of strategy and excitement.
The show struck a chord with viewers, offering a refreshing alternative to the likes of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire or Tipping Point. It became a favorite among trivia enthusiasts, showcasing that the idea of a team-based game show still held immense appeal in the world of TV.
In summary, Blockbusters was an engaging and memorable UK game show that involved answering questions, pitting two teams against each other in a battle for victory. Its TV presence was brief, but it left a lasting impression on viewers, combining game board concept with a touch of nostalgia and strategic gameplay.
Wheel of Fortune (UK Game Show)
The UK version of the American game of the same name. Wheel of Fortune ran from 1988 through 2001 on ITV. Players spin a wheel to earn points and make it through to the final round.
Unlike the American version, there were no cash prizes. Winners of each round were given the option to choose between three prizes, which could have included holidays, household appliances and more.
The UK has hosted several quiz shows that offer high jackpots or the chance to win big prizes. If you want to try your hand at winning one of these games, make sure that you’ve mastered the topics for each game type.
About author
Harry is a long-time member of our team and has been working with CasinoHEX UK for a number of years. Looking for a good job, Harry decided to move to the UK capital from his hometown of Liverpool.
Passionate about gambling and with a good understanding of how it works, he worked for a while as a croupier in one of London’s famous casinos. Eager to gain experience in the online gambling segment of the market,
Harry continued to browse through job openings regularly. One day a vacancy for a marketing position at CasinoHEX UK caught his eye. Talented, experienced, and eager to grow, he made a solid impression on CasinoHEX UK.
Recommended Online Casinos
-
Welcome Bonus- 10 Pound Casinos
- Fast Payout Casinos
- No Account Casinos
Deposit Methods
Game Types
Online slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline baccarat Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New players only. Min deposit £10. Max total bonus £100! 40x wagering (dep + bonus). Bonus valid 28 days. Spins valid 7 days. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. GambleAware.org.
-
Welcome Bonus
- 10 Pound Casinos
- Fast Payout Casinos
- Hippozino Casino launched in 2013
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline bingo Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New Players Only. Wagering occurs from real balance first. 50X wagering the bonus. Contribution may vary per game. Available on selected games only. The wagering requirement is calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 Days from receipt. Max conversion: 3 X the bonus amount. Limited to 5 brands within the network. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org.
-
Welcome Bonus
- 10 Pound Casinos
- Fast Payout Casinos
- International Casinos
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline craps Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org.
-
Welcome Bonus
- 10 Pound Casinos
- Fast Payout Casinos
- International Casinos
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline craps Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests void all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org.
-
Welcome Bonus
- SpinYoo Casino launched in 2021
- 2580+ games
- Offers VIP Program & Dedicated VIP Manager
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline craps Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New players only. Min. deposit £20. Max. bonus bet £5. Offer: 100% of first deposit up to £250 on Slots + 100 Yoo Spins on Starburst, Book of dead, Fire Jocker, Gonzo’s Quest and Big Bass Bananza. Winnings of each 20 spins capped at £50 & credited as bonus. Bonus funds expire after 30 days, are separate to Cash funds & subject to 35x wagering of bonus + deposit amount. Only bonus funds contribute to wagering requirements. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org.
-
Welcome Bonus
- 10 Pound Casinos
- 5 Pound Casinos
- Midnite Casino launched in 2023
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline craps Developers Mobile App
Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure linkhttps://help.midnite.com/en/articles/2686627-terms-of-service
-
Welcome Bonus
- 10 Pound Casinos
- Fast Payout Casinos
- No Account Casinos
Deposit Methods Game TypesOnline slotsOnline rouletteOnline blackjackOnline scratch cardsOnline craps Developers Live Chat24/7Use bonusSecure link18+. New players only. Min dep £10. Welcome package split over 3 deposits. 100 spins splits to 20 spins a day for 5 days. Spins credited in specific games.35x bonus wagering requirements. 50x spins wagering requirements. Spins valid 24 hours. Full T&Cs apply. Gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org.
Online video poker
Online slots
Online roulette
Online blackjack
Online scratch cards
Online baccarat
Live Online blackjack
Live Online baccarat
Online bingo
Online craps
Harry is a long-time member of our team and has been working with CasinoHEX UK for a number of years. Looking for a good job, Harry decided to move to the UK capital from his hometown of Liverpool.
Passionate about gambling and with a good understanding of how it works, he worked for a while as a croupier in one of London’s famous casinos. Eager to gain experience in the online gambling segment of the market,
Harry continued to browse through job openings regularly. One day a vacancy for a marketing position at CasinoHEX UK caught his eye. Talented, experienced, and eager to grow, he made a solid impression on CasinoHEX UK.
Harry is a long-time member of our team and has been working with CasinoHEX UK for a number of years. Looking for a good job, Harry decided to move to the UK capital from his hometown of Liverpool.
Passionate about gambling and with a good understanding of how it works, he worked for a while as a croupier in one of London’s famous casinos. Eager to gain experience in the online gambling segment of the market,
Harry continued to browse through job openings regularly. One day a vacancy for a marketing position at CasinoHEX UK caught his eye. Talented, experienced, and eager to grow, he made a solid impression on CasinoHEX UK.
