
ITV's ambitious new reality show Destination X attempts to reinvent the genre with a high-concept mystery format, but early reviews suggest a critical flaw might derail the experiment before it finds its footing.
The Premise That Almost Works
Contestants arrive blindfolded at an unknown location, tasked with deducing their whereabouts through challenges and local interactions. The twist? They could be anywhere from Margate to Marrakech. The production values impress, with cinematic aerial shots establishing each mystery locale.
Where The Wheels Come Off
Critics unanimously highlight the show's fatal error: the elimination mechanic feels arbitrary. Unlike survival shows where skill determines outcomes, Destination X removes contestants through a convoluted voting system that undermines tension. "It's like Love Island decided to mate with The Amazing Race and forgot the best bits of both," noted one industry insider.
Viewer Fatigue Sets In Early
By episode two, the format's limitations become apparent:
- Repetitive location-guessing segments
- Lack of meaningful stakes
- Forced camaraderie among contestants
The show's potential shines through in moments - particularly when contestants interact authentically with locals - but these highlights drown in a sea of manufactured drama.
Can It Be Saved?
Industry analysts suggest streamlining the format could salvage future seasons:
- Introduce skill-based challenges with actual consequences
- Reduce reliance on contrived "alliances"
- Focus more on cultural discovery than internal politics
For now, Destination X remains an interesting misfire - the kind of ambitious swing that makes broadcast television unpredictable, if not always compelling.