After a successful launch on YouTube, competition format Poker Society is coming to French broadcast channel NRJ 12 (Wednesday, September 25). The shift is the latest example of traditional TV mining social media platforms for compelling IP.
The format, created by Dreamspark, originally aired on the Winamax YouTube channel. It sees ten artists and content creators, with a combined total of over 50 million followers on social media, compete for a €100,000 prize in an abandoned warehouse that has been transformed into a dystopian competitive arena.
The players face off in physical and psychological challenges to gain strategic advantages before competing at poker tables. A mix of strategy and poker, the game is designed to test participants’ tactical intelligence, composure, and bluffing skills.
The format fits a pattern which has seen shows like Traitors and Squid Game: The Challenge capture the imagination of audiences worldwide. Moe Bennani, president of Dreamspark and producer of the show, said: “We are thrilled that this original creation is being aired on NRJ12 after airing on Youtube. To revolutionise strategy games, we have merged the rules and subtlety of poker with the ruthless dynamics of iconic competitions like Survivor and Squid Game.”
Bennani added: “Poker Society introduces a captivating dystopian universe, an ingenious game mechanic, and a unique aesthetic, designed to appeal to a diverse audience. The show is built on the participation of our ten players from various social media backgrounds – ranging from urban culture, streaming, comedy and sports.”
The NRJ 12 series will have 12 episodes of 40 minutes each.
