The Joys and Horrors of Japanese Game Shows

If you have ever had the privilege of watching a Japanese television network for any short period of time, you have probably realized something about their television programs: the Japanese have some of the most bizarre game shows in existence. It seems as though each show is a desperate attempt to top the previous in terms of how ridiculous the situations are and how outrageous the games involved are. There are some shows that are quite notorious for their ridiculousness, and are widely enjoyed by the Japanese people. If you’d like to be initiated into Japanese game show culture, you will definitely need to know about these ones.

One Japanese game show that has inspired spin-offs worldwide is known as Takeshi's Castle. The main character, Takeshi Kitano, plays an eccentric count who lives hid away in a castle. The goal of the contestants is to reach him, but they often encounter some really crazy challenges on the way there. The contestant that manages to get past all of the challenges is the one who wins the game, and the cash prize. It has a following of near cult-like status, and there are shows across the world with similar ideas and concepts.

Baribari Value is a Japanese game show that capitalizes on the popularity of celebrities. Each week, it has very recognizable folks come on and play the game. The game involves guessing the price of an item or object. These objects range from outrageous to everyday things that the celebrities attribute extraordinary prices to. It is a fun show build on an outrageous concept, and it appeals to anyone who watches it. It has been compared to a reverse version of the antique road show, only with people who get laughed at for guessing a grossly wrong price.

Viking: the Ultimate Obstacle Course is another very popular Japanese game show. It involves contestants who have to make it through an obstacle course that is both physically trying, and puzzling at the same time. There are 4 stages, each with different tasks that must be accomplished. Contestants are put into ridiculous situations, but manage to work their ways out for the sake of money.