I didn't watch the first show. Something called elementary school got in the way, but I do remember being home from school, sick, later that week. I stumbled across the Pyramid, and I was blown away. It was unlike any other game show on the air at the time.
The theme music was bold, brassy, and funky. The set was spectacular-- giant pyramid at the back of the stage of the Ed Sullivan Theater, a massive amount of light bulbs, spinning boxes, and the great Dick Clark. It was a feast for the senses. There were game shows offering big money in the 50's, but this was one of the first, if not THE first of the modern era to offer a large cash prize. The $10,000 Pyramid was a game changer, pardon the pun.
As for the game itself, blessedly simple, and very easy to play along with at home. It's stood the test of time, and I'm still a fan.
