The Anonymous: Release date and time, what to expect, and more

USA Network is set to launch a brand new competition series, The Anonymous, on Monday, August 19, at 11 p.m. ET/PT. Produced by Studio Lambert—one of the studios behind hits like The Traitors and The Circle—this series brings a new way of playing social strategy games.

The Anonymous combines 12 contestants who will compete while concealing their identities with masks to talk and do anything without unveiling who they are. The aim is, of course, to remain anonymous while outsmarting others for a grand prize of $100,000. It is set unusually, part of it is real and part of it is a digital domain for the game: the Digital Anonymous Networking Interface, otherwise known as DANI.

The synopsis of the show reads:

"The Anonymous is a game of social strategy where people are free to say what they really feel behind the safety of a mask. What would you say and do if nobody knew it was you behind the mask?"

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What is The Anonymous all about?

Gameplay summary

In the show, 12 contestants will be immersed in a virtual world known as the Digital Anonymous Networking Interface (DANI). The game unfolds in two distinct realms: the real world and anonymous mode. Participants will reside in underground, sealed hideaways where they communicate through unique handles that keep their identities hidden from one another.

The essence of the game is to remain anonymous while freely expressing opinions and thoughts about fellow contestants without fear of being caught. In their hideouts, players can provide unfiltered opinions on their competitors, strategize, and form alliances—all while maintaining their anonymity.

The challenge lies in balancing strategic manipulation, deception, and alliances to advance in the competition without revealing their true identity. The player who best maintains their anonymity gains the power to eliminate others, making the quest for secrecy both a tool and a weapon in this intense social strategy game.

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Challenges and elimination process

Tests will be conducted each week to unmask the contestants. The player who remains undetected will enjoy eliminating other competitors. Inevitably, a psychological game will ensue and every interaction will be very crucial. All that it will take to be eliminated is a small mistake, and a commoner's identity to be revealed. The last contestant standing will receive $100,000.

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Release date and on-air details

The first three episodes of the show premieres on Monday, August 19 at 11 p.m. ET/PT on USA. The premiere episodes also will be simulcast on Bravo and SYFY. After the debut, new episodes will air weekly in the same Monday timeslot, 11 p.m. ET/PT on USA; additional encores will be scheduled throughout the week.

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The Anonymous production team

The Anonymous is produced by Studio Lambert, executive produced by Stephen Lambert, Jack Burgess, Tim Harcourt, Toni Ireland, Stephen Yemoh, and Andy Cadman. Diana Focke acts as the production manager. Studio Lambert stands behind other reality show hits like The Traitors US and The Circle.

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What to expect from The Anonymous

Strategic gameplay

The viewers can look forward to a game of psychological tension and strategic plays. The anonymity element gives another different approach to competition—every move, every decision, crucial. One will have to be cunning, but at the same time, very cautious. One wrong move or revealing too much could be the end.

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Unique viewing experience

Focused on duplicity and playing the game, The Anonymous brings new life into the reality competition genre. This element of secrecy combined with an opportunity for disclosure of dark secrets builds further anticipation for those who like hyper-socially strategic games.

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The Anonymous is a must-watch for fans of reality competition shows. Make sure to tune in to USA Network on Monday, August 19, at 11 p.m. ET/PT to catch the premiere and follow the contestants as they navigate this challenging game of deception.