The global format market is buzzing with the announcement of “Synchro Game,” a new survival game present co-produced by South Korean media giant CJ ENM and Japan’s TBS. Unveiled at MIP London, the show promises a unique blend of intellectual strategy and physical endurance, challenging teams to achieve “perfect synchronization” to survive. The format is already generating excitement as it prepares for its premiere on Korean broadcaster tvN on February 23rd and 24th.
“Synchro Game” distinguishes itself by pairing elite “Brains” – representing intellectual prowess – with top-tier “Physicals” – embodying strength and stamina. This unconventional pairing forces contestants to function as a unified system, navigating challenges designed to test logic, reaction time, coordination, and physical limits. The core premise, as the show’s title suggests, centers around the idea that success isn’t about individual brilliance or brawn, but about the ability to combine strengths and adapt quickly.
This collaboration marks a significant step in the deepening partnership between CJ ENM and TBS, which began in 2021. Their previous co-production, “MUGEN LOOP” (known as “Infinite Loop” in some markets), aired in both Korea and Japan in 2025 and received a nomination for Best Studio-Based Gameshow Format at the International Format Awards 2025, demonstrating the potential of their combined creative vision. The success of “Infinite Loop” paved the way for “Synchro Game” and signals a continued commitment to developing globally adaptable large-scale formats.
A Test of Mind and Body
The challenges within “Synchro Game” are designed to push contestants to their absolute limits, demanding both intellectual agility and physical resilience. According to CJ ENM, the arena-style set-up and cinematic challenge design reflect a growing appetite for high-concept competition formats that merge mental gameplay with physically demanding tasks. The show’s structure emphasizes that survival hinges on a team’s ability to synchronize their efforts, adapt to unforeseen obstacles, and outlast the competition.
The cast includes a diverse ensemble of Korea’s top intellectuals and physical competitors, including Lee Si-won, Amotti, Jung Jae-hyung, Jung Ji-hyun, Jung Jae-ho, Park Young-ho, Park Ji-sung, Nam Seok-woo, Kim Min-gil, Kim Sol-bi, Choi Ji-soo, and Choi Woo-suk. The show is directed by Nam Kyung-mo and produced in collaboration with Takehisa Mizuno, a producer from TBS’s Global IP Studio.
Strategic Partnership Drives Innovation
Sebastian Kim, Head of CJ ENM’s Content Distribution Business Unit, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “Developed in partnership with Japan’s top broadcaster, TBS, ‘Synchro Game’ reflects a shared approach to building a well-made format from the ground up.” He further emphasized that presenting the show at MIP London is a key opportunity to position the format for international audiences.
Jun Fukai, Director of Global Business Development at TBS, echoed this sentiment, expressing honor at the continued collaboration with CJ ENM. “We are excited to see ‘Synchro Game,’ with its truly distinctive and original world-building, expand globally just as our first co-development, ‘Infinite Loop,’ has done,” Fukai added.
The two-part event series (2 x 90’) will premiere on tvN on February 23 and 24. CJ ENM is presenting “Synchro Game” at MIP London as part of its expanding slate of non-scripted formats, actively seeking international partners to bring this innovative concept to a wider audience.
As “Synchro Game” prepares for its launch, the industry will be watching closely to see if this unique blend of mental and physical challenges resonates with viewers and establishes a new benchmark for survival game shows. The show’s success could further solidify the collaborative partnership between CJ ENM and TBS, paving the way for future co-productions and innovative format development.
What are your thoughts on the premise of “Synchro Game”? Share your predictions in the comments below!
