Think you can beat the buzzer? Give it a try at the American Dream mall’s Great Big Game Show, which opened earlier this year. Groups of up to 12 can spend a frenzied couple of hours playing a mashup of the greatest TV game shows. An entertaining host guides the game as guests earn bragging rights.
Two teams of up to six players each are positioned in front of buzzers on opposite sides. Players compete in short, modified versions of more than 18 games, many inspired by game-show classics like Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. There are also a Nerf-gun battle game and a Jenga-like challenge. As they compete, each team racks up points, which are displayed on a large screen.
“The last few years have shown that people are really looking for immersive in-person experiences,” says Great Big Game Show creator Scott Sauers. “This checks all those boxes; it’s fun and bright and actually feels like you’re on a game show.”
Sessions cost approximately $45. Small groups can join other patrons, or you can opt for a private game. You can even bring a date and play one-on-one.
The American Dream location is the company’s 11th; Great Big Game Show locations include San Francisco, Honolulu, Las Vegas, St. Louis and, soon, New York City.
The concept was dreamed up by the people who created the Escape Game in 2014, a puzzle-based adventure where players work together to solve themed challenges in a set time.
