Considered one of the most culturally influential locally produced shows of the 1990s,[1] Battle of the Brains was open to all elementary, high school and college students nationwide.
Each question adds points to the total, while completing a ring merits extra prizes from show sponsors.
From Years 1 to 6, Grand Champions were awarded the following (in units of Philippine pesos, before 20 % tax on prizes): In Years 7 and 8, the Grand Finals total prize for each level was PHP 500,000 (combination of cash and in kind (household appliances, encyclopedia sets and other books, and travel packages to destinations within the Philippines.
[46][47] Throughout its run, Battle of the Brains has become one of the most familiar and legendary quizbowl show in Philippine television, especially for students and trivia enthusiasts.
In fact, the name of the show has been synonymous to any quiz competition in the Philippines, regardless of content and degree of TV coverage.
In David Celdran's recollection published March 2021 he expressed surprise at how people actually remember Battle of the Brains.
He initially thought it will not survive the 1990s TV ratings competition since it was serious and scholastic, lacked showbiz gimmickry, was akin to a 90-minute IQ marathon, and had 30-second math problems which he joked as "television suicide".