My upbringing was steeped in British comedy. It was one of the few things my father and I could both enjoy, so I have fond memories of nights spent watching classics like Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Mr. Bean. These shows not only entertained me but also shaped my love for physical comedy and absurd humor. There is an art to the absurdity found in British comedy that resonates deeply with me.
This same spirit of silliness and irreverence is present in Thank Goodness You’re Here!, a game developed by Coal Supper, a small studio hailing from Yorkshire, England. Described as a “slapformer,” this game exudes the same gleeful goofiness that made Monty Python so iconic. While the gameplay may not be groundbreaking, the colorful cartoon absurdism and bite-sized comedy in this game brought me back to a simpler, more light-hearted time in my life.
In Thank Goodness You’re Here!, players find themselves in the quirky English town of Barnsworth, populated by eccentric locals. Assuming the role of a diminutive, lemon-skinned man, the player is thrust into a series of comical tasks around town that range from mundane to downright bizarre. It’s a whimsical, almost stream-of-consciousness adventure that never fails to surprise with its absurdity.
The town serves as a slapstick playground filled with sight gags and surprises, akin to an interactive Where’s Waldo scene. From inadvertently causing floral casualties while mowing lawns to being led around by a bedridden man’s extendable arm, the game is a series of surreal laughs and quirky humor. It thrives on a blend of surrealism and townie comedy, with moments that range from delightfully absurd to downright ludicrous.
While the humor in Thank Goodness You’re Here! may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s a mix of crude, gross, and juvenile comedy that harks back to the classic British comedy style. Much like Monty Python, the game doesn’t shy away from blending adult humor with Saturday morning cartoon antics, creating a unique and sometimes offbeat experience that may require a certain level of nostalgia or open-mindedness to appreciate fully.
As an interactive comedy, Thank Goodness You’re Here! excels in delivering laughs, even if its gameplay takes a backseat. While the gameplay mechanics mainly involve basic interactions and simple puzzles, the real joy lies in witnessing the bizarre events unfold in the town. However, the game does suffer from some repetitive navigation and backtracking, which can detract from the overall experience.
If you have a soft spot for British humor and enjoy a healthy dose of absurdity, Thank Goodness You’re Here! offers a compact, entertaining comedy experience that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Whether you play it or simply watch a playthrough online, the game promises a refreshingly different and humorous journey.
Thank Goodness You’re Here! launches on August 1 for PlayStation 4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
