Match Game

I saw some of the reviews on IMDb for the new Match Game on ABC and they were very negative, which shocked me. For the first time since the 70s/80s era one went off the air, it feels like they finally got it right. I love that they kept the old theme song, I like that the set, while modernized, is very similar to the 70s era set. The panel I thought was pretty strong, with Rosie O'Donnell and Ian Michael Black in particular looking like potential regulars. Alec Baldwin was fine as host, not terrific, definitely not Gene Rayburn, but he did a good job all things considered. There were certain moments of awkwardness and creepiness, but not too bad. I even loved the skinny microphone! I thought the questions were written with some provocative nature, but not over the top sleaze (Steve Harvey Family Feud, I'm looking at you). Sure, the Costco one was a bit much, but compare this to the failed late 90s remake of Match Game and this one is more tame and not as difficult to watch. The celebration after the audience match seemed a bit excessive and over the top. That should only happen after a successful Super Match. Overall, I thought this remake was pretty well done. Not perfect, but much better than some of the reviewers think.

Martin Short did his best with what he was given, but the questions were awful and made no sense. Nothing like the spirit of the old show that always had at one or two obvious answers. Half the celebs had low energy, and even Martin didn't really ask them anything just made little jokes at their expense. I guess that was his only fault to me. The old format would at least mention what show or project they were working on as a way to introduce them to the audience. The contestants also were a little lackluster as well, but with these questions, could you blame the?. I like Martin Short, but will always miss Alec Baldwin and how he gave new life to an old show. Hoping this version perks up and gets new writers.

The original was lots of fun, with mostly clever jokes steering occasionally into naughty territory.

This version is just loud, obnoxious, and crude. Sad, because I was looking forward to a Match Game revival. Until I saw the show, I thought maybe Baldwin could pull it off.

He can't.

The celebrities don't really seem to be trying to find answers that will match the contestants. If they can't even get into the spirit of the game, why bother?

Just avoid this mess.

With Match Game having 4 different versions in the last 4 decades, ABC brings back the star-studded, big money and hilarious game show in a whole new era!

The show first began with Alec Baldwin, showcasing his sarcastic and witty humor and great rapport with the celebrity panelists. Then, after the show went on a hiatus for a few years, it returned to the airwaves with a new host that has a hosting style that's similar to the late Gene Rayburn's, but adding his own sense of humor too. That man was the hilarious Martin Short, who is pretty decent as well, although the panelist selection still needs work, it still is a fun watch.

So, enjoy the all-new star-studded Match Game on ABC!

I was excited to see my favorite childhood game show making a return. I have great memories watching with my Grandma, Rayburn, Brett, Dawson, Charles Nelson, and others. Too many questions now have sexual references. The show can be funny and entertaining without this. If ABC is trying to appeal to us "boomers", they should try to make the show similar to what made it good in the 60s and 70s.