In the world of video games, where pixels and polygons reign supreme, a unique collaboration between comedy and sports has emerged, giving birth to the Aussie Rules-inspired arcade game, Pro Jank Footy. This innovative project, developed by David Ashby and brought to life with the help of comedy group Aunty Donna, is a testament to the power of merging entertainment and culture. But what makes this game truly fascinating is the unexpected fusion of comedy and Australian rules football, a sport that, as Ashby himself admits, can be quite bizarre to outsiders.
Ashby, the creator of the cult Australian TV show Danger 5, where spies battle giant robots and resurrect dinosaurs, is well aware of the absurdity of Australian rules football. He humorously describes the sport as "ridiculous" and admits that explaining it to someone new can be a challenge. "If you describe the code to somebody who's unfamiliar with it, it sounds like you're making it up on the spot," he says. The game, Pro Jank Footy, embraces this absurdity, adding new and bizarre rules as players progress, creating a unique and hilarious experience.
The collaboration between Ashby and Aunty Donna, particularly Broden Kelly, brings a unique perspective to the game. Kelly, who hosted a football podcast and recorded thousands of lines of commentary, sees the game as a way to combine his love of comedy and football. "I started doing a football podcast that was a bit silly and a bit cheeky and a bit dorky," he says. The game, he believes, captures the essence of being a football fan and the unique bond it creates between people, much like a good joke.
The development of Pro Jank Footy also showcases the importance of bringing 'tactility' to digital play. Video game designer Louis Roots created custom cabinets for the game, evoking the wood-panelled aesthetic of old pubs and arcades, as well as the green grass of the footy field. "I aim to bring a bit of joy into people's lives, bring some tactility to digital play," Roots says. The game's design also incorporates the experience of hearing radio commentary at a game, adding an extra layer of immersion.
Pro Jank Footy is more than just a video game; it's a celebration of Australian culture and sports. It showcases the country's exoticness and weirdness, which, as Ashby notes, is often taken for granted. The game's comedy lies in making fun of and embracing Australian culture and sports culture, providing a unique and entertaining experience for players. As the game launches on August 13, it invites players to explore the absurdity of Australian rules football and the power of merging entertainment and culture.
