Channel 5 viewers ‘confused’ by The Game finale as they fume ‘Have to write the ending ourselves!’
Channel 5’s thriller The Game concluded on Thursday evening, with viewers taking to social media to express mixed reactions about its ambiguous ending.
Many were left wondering about the fate of main character Huw, played by Jason Watkins, whose fate was unconfirmed.
The four-part thriller follows retired detective DI Huw Miller, played by Jason Watkins, who remains haunted by a serial killer case he failed to solve – that of the Ripton Stalker.
When the enigmatic Patrick Harbottle, portrayed by Robson Green, moves into his street and uses the stalker’s chilling phrase “catch you later”, Huw becomes convinced his new neighbour is the killer.
What followed was an intense psychological battle between the two men, with Patrick framing Huw for murders and targeting his family.
The finale sees their cat-and-mouse game reach its climax as Patrick breaks into Huw’s home for a final confrontation, while Huw’s wife Alice and daughter Margot are sent into hiding for their safety.
In the final episode, Patrick lured Huw into a trap at his own home, locking him in and confronting him in the basement with a knife. As they engaged in psychological warfare, Huw attempted to stall Patrick until help arrived.
Detective Jenny, who earlier released Huw on bail after realising Patrick was the true killer, rushed to the house after missing Huw’s call.
Just as Jenny burst into the basement, Patrick stabbed Huw in the chest before being overpowered and arrested by police.
The series ended with Alice finding her wounded husband as Jenny called an ambulance. Huw told Alice they can finally live a normal life, making plans for a trip to Lisbon, but viewers were left uncertain as to whether he survived.
“Did Huw die in the end?” questioned one viewer on X, while another wrote: “No no, you can’t leave it like that, now we’re left wondering if Huw lives or dies.”
Some fans speculated about a potential second series, with one posting: “Soooooo 2nd series yeah lol.”
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Others were more critical, with one viewer commenting: “A slightly ho hum ending but good performances all round, I think. Could have used a twist.”
Another simply stated: “So we have to write the ending ourselves…”
Despite the divided opinions on the ending, many viewers praised the performances in the drama.
One fan on social media highlighted Robson Green’s portrayal, writing: “#thegame far from a wishy washy ending. Left to wonder whether Huw survives or not.
“That’s very emotive. Yes there were a few flaws. But overall really enjoyed The Game.”
Another viewer specifically commended Green’s performance as the villain: “Great channel 5 programme #thegame edge of the seat stuff. Great cast.
“Robson Green plays a creepy villain extremely well. Particularly when I’ve seen him in his documentaries where he’s so lovely.”
Some comments also suggested Channel 5 is building a reputation for quality drama, with one viewer noting: “Channel 5 seem to be the underdogs for great dramas recently.” (sic)