First or last

[carlisle96]

Here's a question: If you could somehow get a copy of every network game show that has aired since the late 40s, would you rather have the debut or the finale or just a random episode?

[PYLclark86]

Honestly? I'd prefer a random episode. Your early shows (especially pre 2000s) are going to be awkward and clunky while they iron out all of the kinks. Finales usually have shortened/altered gameplay to accommodate the fact that it's the last episode. Besides, what's the split between shows that had clear cut goodbyes versus the ones that quietly ended? 50/50?

[BrandonFG]

Random. I always get a weird sense of bittersweetness watching finales, and the premiere is usually a little awkward.

[Ian Wallis]

I guess random is probably the right answer - if you want to get a feel for how the game usually flowed.  Although, last episodes are always of interest because I'm always curious as to exactly how they're going to sign off.

[aaron sica]

A random episode. Especially if it's a show that I know, I would get bored with hearing the rules explained for the debut, and on the other end, don't need to see gameplay cut for a lengthy, sometimes emotional, goodbye.

[carlisle96]

A random episode. Especially if it's a show that I know, I would get bored with hearing the rules explained for the debut, and on the other end, don't need to see gameplay cut for a lengthy, sometimes emotional, goodbye.

I think I'd go for finales. Most of the last shows I've seen appear to be like random episodes with the usual game play with just a brief goodbye at the end instead of a big deal like What's My Line.