A 12-part series of high-stakes poker entwined with the drama of survival reality television was launched by GGPoker, the world's biggest poker room last 8 November with its premiere episode under the Poker After Dark banner.

Available for streaming on the GGPoker.tv YouTube channel, the premiere episode of "Game of Gold" holds the distinction as the first-ever poker survival reality show. Its second episode aired Friday, 10 November with new episodes released on subsequent Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays until 4 December.

Set in Seoul, South Korea, the show helmed by veteran poker commentator Ali Nejad, promises a blend of high-stakes poker challenges and the dynamics of a survival reality series. Across 12 episodes, the 16 contenders will battle it out in various poker disciplines, such as Sit & Go, Heads-Up, Indian Poker, and classic tournament play, with elimination awaiting those who falter.

Game of Gold showcases 16 competitors in a quest for the hefty $456,000 prize.

Daniel Negreanu, GGPoker's Global Ambassador, shares, "'Game of Gold' reimagines the classic poker show formula by infusing it with novel, exhilarating elements and the zest of reality TV, crafting a truly innovative viewing experience." He teases the audience, "For anyone with a sliver of interest in poker, 'Game of Gold' is a must-watch. As for who clinches the $456,000 — you'll have to tune in to find out."

In the ever-evolving landscape of reality television, where innovation is the key to captivating audiences, "Game of Gold" emerges as a groundbreaking concept that marries the skillful nuances of poker with the ruthless challenges of a survival reality show.

This unique fusion not only puts contestants' poker prowess to the test but adds an extra layer of complexity by immersing them in the unforgiving world of survival. As players vie for both chips and survival resources, "Game of Gold" stands at the forefront of a new era in reality entertainment.

The birth of a hybrid:

"Game of Gold" was conceived as a daring experiment, aiming to break away from the conventional reality show mold. Inspired by the popularity of poker tournaments and the gritty drama of survival challenges, the creators envisioned a game that would not only keep viewers on the edge of their seats but also push contestants to their limits both mentally and physically. The result was an amalgamation of high-stakes poker and the raw intensity of survival scenarios, providing a fresh and unpredictable viewing experience.

Format and structure:

The game unfolds across a series of poker tournaments set against the backdrop of challenging and remote locations. Contestants, a diverse mix of seasoned poker professionals and adventurous amateurs, not only compete against each other in intense poker games but also face the harsh realities of survival in unpredictable environments. The combination of poker and survival elements ensures that players must navigate dual challenges, making strategic decisions both at the poker table and in the wilderness.

Survival poker dynamics:

"Game of Gold" maintains a delicate balance between poker dynamics and survival challenges. In the poker rounds, contestants battle it out for chips, employing their strategic acumen to outwit opponents. However, the game takes unexpected turns with the integration of survival challenges between poker sessions. Contestants, having to adapt on the fly, showcase their resourcefulness, resilience, and ability to make critical decisions under pressure, creating a dynamic and unpredictable narrative.