Catch 21

You might think this is a simple show, since it is a variation on the game Blackjack, but it is more complex than that.

Three contestants face off, trying to get card hands that total as close to 21 as possible, without going over. But first they get a trivia question (multiple choice) to determine who gets control over the next card. Whoever has control can direct that card to his own hand or to a competitor's hand. The strategy is about maximizing your chances while trying to reduce your opponent's. And you can choose to freeze your hand, forcing your opponent(s) to score a better hand, or lose.

When only one contestant is left, he gets to play against the deck, trying to achieve a score of 21 in three separate hands. The top prize is $25,000, which is notable.

The level of the trivia questions is perfect: not too hard or too easy. The strategy in playing the cards is difficult enough that you will see mistakes in almost every episode.

Host Alfonso Ribeira and dealer Mikki Padilla have a positive vibe and vocally root for the contestants, making this a fun show that involves both knowledge and strategic choices.