Viewers of ITV’s new game show Genius Game were left frustrated, with many labelling it a “Traitors rip-off” and some even feeling compelled to switch off.
The show, presented by David Tennant, features players selected for both their high intellectual ability and social IQ, as they engage in the ultimate struggle to outlast each other.
To emerge victorious, the contestants are put through an array of unique games aimed at not just challenging their mental sharpness but also encouraging them to deploy cunning manipulation tactics to defeat their rivals and claim a cash prize.
In last night’s episode, Charlotte came out on top of the main match, while Paul was left facing the death match. In tonight’s episode (1st May), participants faced the ‘Main Match’ called the Zombie Game, where two individuals secretly designated as zombies had to attempt to convert their human counterparts.
(Image: ITV)
The challenge led to a fierce contest between Scott and Alison, who competed against each other to avoid elimination. At the end of a gruelling Death Match, Alison was triumphant, sending Scott home much to his disappointment.
Amidst all the unfolding drama, home audiences couldn’t ignore the resemblances between the show and the BBC smash hit Traitors, with viewers quick to point out the parallels online, reports Wales Online.
One user took to X (formerly Twitter) and observed: “This is the traitors with zombies.#GeniusGame.” A second viewer expressed: “So this is just a complicated version of the traitors now, i don’t get it #geniusgame.”
Another joined in, remarking: “This game is like The Traitors! #GeniusGame.” Meanwhile, another follower mused: “The creators of the traitors watching this #GeniusGame.”
(Image: BBC)
Some viewers, however, found themselves grappling with the complexities of the show, opting to turn away. A spectator admitted: “Tried to watch the Genius Game. If a game show requires diagrams I’m out.”
Comments flowed, one perplexed viewer saying: “Never been so confused in my life #geniusgame.” Compounded by confusion, another shared: “I’ve given up on #GeniusGame just isn’t grabbing me at all.”
while another questioned the host’s understanding: “Does Tennant even know what’s going on? He’s just reading the autocue #GeniusGame.”
Despite the critiques, the show wasn’t without its champions. An enthused fan declared: “Brilliant and intriguing! #GeniusGame.”
Another pleased viewer professed: “this new game show, #GeniusGame is fab!! I am loving it.”
Genius Game airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
