cp999 wrote:
To be honest I am mystified as to why anyone would play quiz machines for entertainment, seeing as they are practically the antithesis thereof. What's entertaining (for Joe Punter) about the rare occasions you actually get somewhere, then being confronted with drivel questions that only a savant or a professional would know the answer to? To say nothing of the objectively appalling standard of factual accuracy, grammar and spelling.
because it is a pub game. people play darts and pool while having a pint; maybe with a shilling on the side. they are not likely to be at purfleet or the crucible next week.
years ago it was backgammon and dominoes and before that cock fighting and dice. the concept of entertainment/gambling in pubs is nothing new, SWP is just an opportunity to do something in the pub rather than pretending to read a paper and just drinking instead. for me there is enjoyment in playing SWP, but admittedly, if i wasn't a boozer i wouldn't play nearly as much.
i don't think normal pub folk really expect to win, for a group of four mates, a pound each for half an hour of guided conversation is very good value. even if they spend it on STD.
once the £1 is in the slot it stays there, even if a small win comes easily it is never collected, just recycled. in real terms, what is £1 when you have just paid £12.00 for a round?
on the other point, i think any factual inaccuracy/spg errors are not noticed by casual punters. except things asking about pluto and highbury when the smart aleck of the group can regale his mates with fantastical facts to show off his knowledge. there is a deal of machismo in group SWPing.
nobody ever wins on those things.
