This game inaugurated a craze that “scandalized the puritanical and drove chiropractors wild with delight

On the March 13, 2025, episode of Jeopardy!, the Final Jeopardy category was “Games”, and the clue read:

“This game inaugurated a craze that ‘scandalized the puritanical and drove chiropractors wild with delight.'”

What is Twister?

Twister, the game referenced in the clue, was invented in 1964 by Charles Foley and Neil Rabens. Originally called “Pretzel,” it was designed as a party game that required players to place their hands and feet on a colorful mat based on the spin of a wheel. The game was later renamed Twister and manufactured by Milton Bradley, launching in 1966.

The game’s popularity soared after it was featured on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. When actress Eva Gabor played a round of Twister with Carson on national television, the suggestive physicality of the game captured the public’s attention. The mix of social interaction and physical closeness led to both controversy and enthusiasm, with some critics calling it inappropriate while others praised its novelty.

The Impact and Controversy

The phrase in the clue—“scandalized the puritanical and drove chiropractors wild with delight”—originates from Time magazine’s description of Twister in 1966. The game’s close-contact nature led to concerns that it was too risqué, particularly at a time when American society was more conservative about personal space and physical interactions. Despite this, the controversy only fueled its appeal, making it a nationwide sensation.

Twister also gained a reputation for its physical demands. The game requires players to stretch and balance in awkward positions, which sometimes results in falls, tangled limbs, or unintended slips. This aspect made it entertaining to play and watch, contributing to its lasting popularity. The reference to chiropractors in the clue humorously alludes to the back-straining positions players often find themselves in.

Twister’s Enduring Popularity

Despite initial controversy, Twister has remained a staple in game culture for decades. Over the years, it has been rebranded and expanded with various versions, including glow-in-the-dark editions, themed mats, and digital adaptations. It continues to be a popular game at parties, family gatherings, and even fitness programs that use it for stretching exercises.

Twister has also been referenced frequently in popular culture, appearing in television shows, movies, and advertisements. Its simple yet physically engaging gameplay makes it accessible to people of all ages, and its impact on social gaming remains significant.

Why Twister Fit the Final Jeopardy Clue

The Final Jeopardy clue encapsulated the essence of Twister by highlighting both its controversy and its physical nature. The phrase about “scandalizing the puritanical” referenced the initial social pushback, while the part about chiropractors referenced the game’s physically demanding nature. Twister’s ability to balance fun, challenge, and social interaction made it an unforgettable part of American pop culture.

By framing the question around the game’s historical reception, Jeopardy! tested contestants on both trivia knowledge and cultural awareness. The game that once stirred controversy in the 1960s has since become a household favorite, proving that even the most unexpected inventions can leave a lasting legacy.