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Thank Goodness You're Here!

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Thank Goodness You're Here!
Item: Thank Goodness You're Here!
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Casual, Single Player

AvailableAug 1, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC

DeveloperCoal Supper

Overview

Thank Goodness You're Here! is an absurd comedy slapformer set in the bizarre Northern English town of Barnsworth. As a traveling salesman, take the time to see the sights and meet the locals, who are very eager to give you a series of increasingly odd jobs…

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Thank Goodness You're Here!" delivers a delightful mix of absurd humor and quirky charm, earning praise from critics for its whimsical storytelling and eccentric characters. However, the narrative's depth and clarity fall short, with some reviewers noting a lack of resolution and coherence. Despite these flaws, its captivating comedic scenes make it a standout in the genre, particularly for fans of British comedy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its humorous narrative and quirky characters. Reviewers such as Adventure Gamers and GameSpot highlight the game's absurdist comedy set in the fictional Yorkshire town of Barnsworth, emphasizing the engaging and whimsical hijinks that the protagonist encounters. Critics like Eurogamer and The New York Times commend the masterful orchestration of the comedy, noting its surreal whimsy and British humor that adds depth to the narrative. The continuous flow of unexpected events, as noted by But Why Tho? and RPG Fan, creates a captivating experience for players, making the interactions with the eccentric townsfolk a highlight of the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's depth and clarity. Some reviewers, like GamingTrend and IGN Spain, express that the narrative feels paper-thin and lacks a clear resolution, particularly regarding the protagonist's background and the purpose of his journey. Oyungezer mentions that while the story is filled with humor, it can also be confusing and not easily understandable. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel that the absurdity sometimes overshadows coherent storytelling, leading to a narrative that may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Thank Goodness You're Here!" offers a unique blend of absurd humor and quirky storytelling that appeals to fans of British comedy. While some reviewers like Vandal appreciate the comedic rhythm and sketch-like quality of the narrative, others, such as GamingTrend and IGN Spain, point out its shortcomings in depth and clarity. Despite these criticisms, the game's charm and entertaining scenarios seem to leave a positive impression on most players, making it a noteworthy title in the realm of comedic adventure games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Thank Goodness You're Here! charms with whimsical humor and creative interactions, impressing critics for its light-hearted absurdity. However, its simplistic mechanics and linear quests have led to concerns about depth and repetitiveness, making it a polarizing experience. While it's a delight for fans of absurd challenges, those seeking complexity may find it lacking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Thank Goodness You're Here! has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its whimsical and humorous approach. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and The New York Times highlight the creative and engaging interactions that keep players entertained, with the game employing simple mechanics such as jumping and slapping to navigate through absurd scenarios. Eurogamer appreciates the storybook simplicity of the interactions, while GameSpot notes the intuitive progression mechanics that blend light 2D platforming with 3D environments. The humor embedded in the gameplay is a recurring theme, with critics like RPG Fan and The Jimquisition praising the ludicrous situations that arise from the protagonist's actions, contributing to an overall lighthearted experience. However, several critics express concerns regarding the gameplay's depth and complexity. CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral criticize the simplistic mechanics and lack of engaging puzzles, suggesting that the gameplay can become stale or repetitive over time. Oyungezer echoes this sentiment, noting that while the initial humor is entertaining, the lack of depth may lead to a diminished experience as players progress. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GamingTrend and NintendoWorldReport, point out the linear nature of the quests and the potential for backtracking, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Thank Goodness You're Here! offers a unique and humorous gameplay experience, it is limited by its simplistic mechanics and lack of depth. Critics like Gameliner and PlayStation Universe acknowledge the charm and creativity of the interactions, but also caution that the game may not appeal to everyone due to its niche humor and repetitive tasks. The gameplay is best appreciated by those who enjoy light-hearted, absurd challenges rather than traditional gaming complexity, making it a polarizing title that may resonate more with specific audiences.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Thank Goodness You're Here!" dazzles with vibrant, hand-drawn graphics that critics love for their whimsical charm and immersive environments. Most reviews praise the unique character designs and cartoonish aesthetic, perfectly complementing the game's comedic vibes. However, a few dissenters find the style unattractive, pointing to a divide in audience taste. Overall, the visuals are a standout feature that enhances the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" have garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting the game's vibrant and whimsical art style. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Eurogamer celebrate the fantastic hand-drawn cartoon-like animation and the detailed environments, which contribute to an immersive experience. The game's unique character designs, noted by GameSpot and Oyungezer, further enhance its appeal, creating a visual identity that is both engaging and humorous. Critics like PC Gamer and The Jimquisition commend the cartoonish aesthetic, which effectively supports the game's surreal and comedic elements, making it a standout feature that resonates well with players. However, not all opinions are as favorable. Adventure Gamers stands out with a contrasting view, describing the graphics as stylized but unattractive, indicating that the visual design may not resonate with everyone. While the majority of reviews celebrate the art style, this dissenting opinion suggests that the game's aesthetic may not appeal universally, particularly to those who prefer more traditional or realistic graphics. This divergence highlights a potential divide in audience expectations regarding visual presentation in video games. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily toward a positive reception of the graphics and visual design in "Thank Goodness You're Here!" The majority of reviewers appreciate the game's colorful and imaginative art style, with many noting how well it complements the comedic tone and absurdity of the gameplay. Critics from various platforms, including CGMagazine and GamingTrend, emphasize the beauty and charm of the hand-drawn visuals, while others like Push Square and Vandal highlight the clever use of visual gags and animations. Despite a few dissenting voices, the overwhelming sentiment suggests that the game's graphics significantly enhance the player experience, making it a noteworthy aspect of the title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Thank Goodness You're Here!" impresses with its standout voice acting—especially the British accents—and a fitting soundtrack that enhances its comedic vibe. Critics celebrate the cast's charm, including talents like Matt Berry, and the music's role in the quirky atmosphere. However, some point out inconsistencies in sound design and a few outdated musical choices. Overall, the game's audio elements are deemed essential to its engaging and absurd experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" have garnered largely positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's effective integration of audio elements to enhance its comedic atmosphere. Reviewers like Adventure Gamers and Eurogamer praised the impressive voice acting, noting its variety and charm, which contribute significantly to the game's humor. The vocal performances, particularly in British accents, have been highlighted as a standout feature, with Gameliner and CGMagazine emphasizing the brilliance of the cast, including notable talents like Matt Berry. Additionally, the music has been described as fitting and enjoyable, with Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country noting how the soundtrack complements the absurdist comedy, creating an engaging soundscape that reflects the game's quirky setting. However, some critiques do point out limitations in the sound design. While PC Gamer acknowledges the presence of an anarchic musical number, they note a lack of extensive detail regarding the sound design, suggesting that it may not be as thoroughly developed as other aspects of the game. Similarly, while PlayStation Country appreciates the incidental music, they mention that some musical choices may seem outdated, which could detract from the overall experience for certain players. This sentiment hints at a potential inconsistency in the quality or relevance of the music throughout the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the voice acting and musical elements as integral to the game's charm and humor. The combination of well-cast voice talent and a fitting soundtrack creates an immersive experience that resonates with players. Reviewers like GameSpot and The Jimquisition encapsulate this sentiment by noting how the voice performances bring life to the characters and enhance the absurdity of the narrative, contributing to a delightful and comedic atmosphere that makes "Thank Goodness You're Here!" a memorable experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Thank Goodness You're Here! is a standout feature, acclaimed for its comedic flair and depth added by a stellar cast, particularly Matt Berry. Critics praise the distinct North Country accents and engaging delivery, which enhance character interactions. However, some minor critiques include missed opportunities to spotlight voice acting in reviews, subtitle synchronization issues, and potential language barriers for non-native speakers. Overall, the voice performances are deemed crucial to the game's charm and enjoyment, with most reviewers celebrating their impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Thank Goodness You're Here! has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many highlighting it as one of the game's standout features. Reviewers from Adventure Gamers and But Why Tho? praised the fully voiced characters and the stellar lineup, particularly noting the contributions of Matt Berry, which significantly enhance the game's humor and personality. Eurogamer echoed this sentiment, describing the voice cast as "reliably daft," delivering comedic gags with genuine flair. Gameliner and RPG Fan emphasized the masterful delivery of the voice actors, asserting that it adds depth to character interactions and comedic timing, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the game. The consistent mention of distinct North Country accents and the ability of the voice cast to embody the quirky characters of Barnsworth further solidifies the positive reception. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critiques were noted regarding the voice acting. For instance, while PC Gamer acknowledged the humorous communication styles of characters, it did not explicitly focus on the voice acting itself, suggesting a missed opportunity to highlight this aspect. Additionally, IGN Italia pointed out subtitle synchronization issues, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. IGN Spain also mentioned potential language barriers that might affect understanding for certain audiences, indicating that while the voice acting is exquisite, accessibility could be an issue for non-native speakers. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Thank Goodness You're Here! is a significant strength of the game, enhancing its comedic charm and character depth. With multiple reviewers, including GamingTrend and NintendoWorldReport, emphasizing the distinctiveness and energy brought by the voice cast, it is clear that the game's vocal performances have resonated well with audiences. The combination of a talented cast, led by notable actors like Matt Berry, and the effective use of local accents has created a rich auditory experience that complements the game's quirky narrative. Thus, while there are minor criticisms, the majority of critics agree that the voice acting is a key element that elevates the overall gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Thank Goodness You're Here!" shines with stable performance across PC and Nintendo Switch, hailed for smooth gameplay and multi-device compatibility. Minor issues exist, like clumsy progression on PC and autosave limits on Switch, plus subtitle sync hiccups on PS5. Critics generally endorse it, deeming the game a solid choice despite a few technical quirks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" has generally received positive feedback across various gaming platforms. On PC, critics like PC Gamer and RPG Fan noted a stable experience, with no significant technical issues reported, allowing players to enjoy the game without interruptions. Adventure Gamers highlighted a lack of a map and quest log as a quality of life concern, but did not mention any technical flaws, indicating that the game runs smoothly overall. On the Nintendo Switch, CGMagazine praised the game's performance on the launch model, confirming that it runs impeccably and is also deck verified for Steam Deck, ensuring a seamless experience for players on multiple devices. Nintenduo added that the game offers bilingual support and a compact playtime, which contributes positively to its accessibility and user experience. Despite the overall positive reception, there are some criticisms regarding technical performance on each platform. On PC, GameSpot pointed out a slight clumsiness in progression mechanics at the beginning, which may hinder initial gameplay but becomes intuitive over time. On the Nintendo Switch, while no major technical issues were reported, the game’s reliance on autosave without manual save points could be seen as a drawback for players who prefer more control over their progress. For the PS5, IGN Italia mentioned minor technical issues with subtitle synchronization, which could impact understanding for non-native speakers. Push Square echoed this sentiment, highlighting the absence of a main menu quit option and a lack of chapter select, which could frustrate players wanting to revisit specific segments of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that "Thank Goodness You're Here!" delivers a largely stable and enjoyable experience across platforms, with minor technical concerns that vary by device. The PC version is praised for its smooth performance, while the Nintendo Switch version excels in compatibility and stability. However, the PS5 version does face some criticisms regarding subtitle issues and menu navigation. While these negatives are noteworthy, they do not overshadow the game's overall technical performance, which is deemed satisfactory by most reviewers, suggesting that players can expect a solid experience regardless of their chosen platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Thank Goodness You're Here!" has charm and humor that may entice replay, but its short playtime (1.5 to 3 hours) and lack of extra content severely limit replay value. Critics agree that while the quirky gags are fun, the novelty fades quickly, leaving little incentive to revisit after completion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" is mixed, with several critics acknowledging the game's charm and humor as potential incentives for replaying. Eurogamer highlights the game's "freewheeling whimsy" and suggests that the unique gags and subversion of expectations can enhance the replay experience. Similarly, PlayStation Universe and PC Gamer note that the abundance of jokes and hidden elements encourages players to revisit the game for a fresh comedic experience. Critics like NintendoWorldReport also emphasize the game's humor, suggesting that while the experience is short, the enjoyment derived from it could entice players to return. On the downside, many reviewers point out the game's brevity as a significant limitation to its replay value. Gameliner, Gaming Age, and TheSixthAxis all mention the game's short playtime, typically ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours, which can lead to a feeling of completion without much incentive to return. Critics such as CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral further emphasize the lack of secondary objectives or additional content, which diminishes replayability and makes the game's price seem steep. The linearity of the gameplay, as noted by Nintenduo, also contributes to the perception that once players have experienced the game, there is little reason to revisit it. In summary, while there is a consensus that the humor and charm of "Thank Goodness You're Here!" can motivate some players to replay the game, the overwhelming sentiment is that its short duration and lack of additional content significantly limit its replay value. Critics such as The Jimquisition and Vandal express concern that the novelty may wear off quickly, leaving players with little reason to return once they've completed the game. Overall, the critics suggest that while the game offers a delightful experience, its replayability is hampered by its brevity and straightforward nature.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards Thank Goodness You're Here! is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique blend of humor, creativity, and vibrant visual design. Reviewers like Eurogamer highlight the game's "impeccable comedy" and "surreal whimsy," while But Why Tho? describes it as one of the "most creative and zany experiences." The game's charm is frequently noted, with critics such as RPG Fan emphasizing its "humorous and charming adventure" and PC Gamer calling it a "treasure trove of humor." The consensus is clear that the game excels in delivering laughs and engaging gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of absurd and irreverent humor. However, several critics also point out notable shortcomings that may limit its appeal. Oyungezer mentions the game's "short length and repetitive gameplay," which could detract from its overall enjoyment. Similarly, TheSixthAxis notes the limited gameplay depth and replayability, suggesting that while the humor is strong, the game may not sustain long-term engagement. Critics like CGMagazine and GamingTrend also highlight issues with the story and gameplay depth, indicating that while the game is visually stunning and funny, it may not resonate with everyone due to its niche appeal. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Thank Goodness You're Here! is a delightful and humorous experience that successfully caters to fans of absurd comedy, as noted by critics like The Jimquisition and PlayStation Universe. While the game may not be for everyone—due to its specific humor and some gameplay limitations—it is widely regarded as a creative and enjoyable title that stands out in the indie game scene. The positive reception emphasizes its unique charm and artistic vision, making it a recommended experience for those who appreciate its quirky style.

TL;DR

Thank Goodness You're Here! is a critically acclaimed indie game celebrated for its blend of humor and vibrant visuals, offering a "charming adventure" filled with laughs. However, its short length and repetitive gameplay may limit long-term appeal. While not for everyone, it shines as a unique and enjoyable experience for fans of absurd comedy, making it a standout title worth exploring.

MONSTER

Reviews

76 reviews found

100

Eurogamer

Jul 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Thank Goodness You're Here is praised for its impeccable comedy, surreal whimsy, vibrant world design, and genuine flair in delivering gags, making it a must-play for fans of absurd humor.

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100

Gameliner

Aug 29, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the game is praised as a well-thought-out project that successfully combines humor and simplicity, making it a delightful experience.

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But Why Tho?

Aug 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the game is praised as one of the most creative and zany experiences, filled with humor and surprises, making it a worthwhile adventure.

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PC Gamer

Jan 9, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as a treasure trove of humor, successfully delivering laughs and engaging gameplay. It is recommended for anyone who enjoys surreal comedy.

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Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Aug 1, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Thank Goodness You're Here is described as one of the weirdest games the reviewer has played but also one of the most fun, leaving players questioning what they just experienced in a good way.

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GameSpot

Jul 29, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A joyous and hilarious game filled with absurdism, surrealism, and outlandish euphemisms, likely to appeal to those who appreciate British humor and vibrant visual design.

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The New York Times

Aug 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a splendidly madcap experience that is enjoyable and humorous, making it a good choice for indoor entertainment.

PlayStation Country

PlayStation 5

Aug 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Thank Goodness You’re Here! is praised as a genuinely funny game with a strong sense of place and character, though it may not be suitable for all audiences.

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Aug 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Thank Goodness You're Here! is a fresh, fun, and innovative interactive comedy that successfully engages players with its humor and artistic style.

Gaming Age

Sep 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Thank Goodness You're Here! is a niche comedy game that may not appeal to everyone, but those who appreciate its specific humor could find it highly enjoyable.

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