Penny Arcade Adventures: Episode One

 PC
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 97 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 73 out of 97
  2. Mixed: 18 out of 97
  3. Negative: 6 out of 97

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  1. JesseB.
    May 22, 2008
    9
    If you like the comic, you'll like the game. The PC version is a bit frustrating--using the mouse is kind of unusual for an RPG--but the dialogue is hilarious. In short, what were you expecting? If you hate Penny Arcade, don't give them twenty bucks just to hate them more.
  2. JacobB.
    May 30, 2008
    8
    Combat seems impossible at first but gets playable and fun....definitely addicting.
  3. Jake
    May 22, 2008
    10
    This game might not have the best innovations in gameplay. But it sure as hell ain't broken. And I don't see why you need to fix what isn't broken especially when it does such a good job conveying that good old penny arcade hummer.
  4. DavidF
    Sep 5, 2008
    10
    I liked the demo so far. I'm going to unlock the full version today. The game play has elements not found in other adventure games.
  5. HowardU.
    May 22, 2008
    10
    This game has amazing dialog and the combat system is good too. It feel like the gamer has a lot of choices that can affect teh outcome. Be wary of reviewers who intentionally bash this game because the PA crew haven't made a lot of friends in this area and they aren't like other publishers that can buy their reviews. Either way, pick up the demo and see for yourself. 20 bucks This game has amazing dialog and the combat system is good too. It feel like the gamer has a lot of choices that can affect teh outcome. Be wary of reviewers who intentionally bash this game because the PA crew haven't made a lot of friends in this area and they aren't like other publishers that can buy their reviews. Either way, pick up the demo and see for yourself. 20 bucks for 7 hours of quality gameplay isn't a bad deal. There are some full retail games that don't even have this much content.… Expand
  6. ArtV.
    May 22, 2008
    10
    Ignore the bad reviews! Just pick up the demo and see for yourself, there are a lot of reviewers that have it in for the PA crew. Personally, I have bought the game and just about finished it. The dialog is amazing, very funny. The gameplay is decent too. There is lots of things to do every fight and the gamer feels like they have a lot of choices.
  7. FedorP.
    May 23, 2008
    10
    For me, the key to liking this game was to not expect anything very particular from the gameplay and accept what it has to offer on its own terms. That attitude worked, plus the art is great and the humour classic Penny Arcade. Good fun for a reasonable price.
  8. JonathonH.
    May 27, 2008
    9
    Episodic games tend to do poorly in the traditional review system - 'too short' tends to be a common complaint, regardless of the fact that the games often contain four/five hours of content, which constitutes great value considering the price point they're sold at. On The Rain Slick looks great, plays well - including a combat system that's deeper than the demo would Episodic games tend to do poorly in the traditional review system - 'too short' tends to be a common complaint, regardless of the fact that the games often contain four/five hours of content, which constitutes great value considering the price point they're sold at. On The Rain Slick looks great, plays well - including a combat system that's deeper than the demo would have you believe - and contains the funniest writing in an adventure game this side of the millennium. I can't say how the game's setting and humor will stand up for players who haven't read the comic, but I suspect the appeal will be fairly universal, the M rating notwithstanding. I enjoyed Sam and Max, but On The Rain Slick was another level for me entirely. It's twenty dollars; avoid it at your peril.… Expand
  9. LutExIV
    Jul 8, 2008
    8
    Before commenting, I will preface my review with this little caveat; I had never read a Penny Arcade strip in my life. I downloaded the OTRSPOD demo because I like the premise, and thought I might enjoy the game. I enjoyed the demo so much, I bought the full game. The art style fits perfectly to the games comic strip feel. The writing is witty and fun, and made me literally laugh out loud Before commenting, I will preface my review with this little caveat; I had never read a Penny Arcade strip in my life. I downloaded the OTRSPOD demo because I like the premise, and thought I might enjoy the game. I enjoyed the demo so much, I bought the full game. The art style fits perfectly to the games comic strip feel. The writing is witty and fun, and made me literally laugh out loud at times. The combat is refreshingly shallow; it doesn… Expand
  10. MitchL.
    May 22, 2008
    9
    An excellent game with great humor. As some of the reviews mention, the gameplay isn't the deepest out there, but this is a minor shortcoming in an otherwise excellent experience. Reviewers who complain that it's too esoteric are missing the point - it's a game for Penny Arcade fans, and if they'd tried to appeal to a wider audience, it wouldn't be Penny Arcade.
  11. CameronR.
    May 22, 2008
    8
    The system grew on me, and the humour pulled me all the way through. It may not be quite Sam & Max, but it was close enough to leave me entertained and happy with the purchase. Definitely one for the fans, and there are a lot of them.
  12. StuartW.
    May 22, 2008
    10
    I don't understand the apprehension held by the various gamer reviewers for RSPD personally, as I after playing just a small portion of the game have seen what it has to offer. Both Mike and Jerry have played video games for the last 20 something years. If anyone was to know the inner working mechanics of a game in question, it would be these fine connoisseurs of the pulp video I don't understand the apprehension held by the various gamer reviewers for RSPD personally, as I after playing just a small portion of the game have seen what it has to offer. Both Mike and Jerry have played video games for the last 20 something years. If anyone was to know the inner working mechanics of a game in question, it would be these fine connoisseurs of the pulp video genre. Not even ten minutes into the game, minute attention to trivial detail is exhibited in your character's appearance right into the game, as well as the humorous nuances in the colorful dialog. If you take this game too seriously your game experience will tragically fail, but I personally expect more from this dynamic duo of PC/Console repertoire. That being said I give this game a 10, because I enjoy the paradoxical state of a "perfect game," yet rather I expect the best to come from this series of funny yet questionable adventures.… Expand
  13. JoeD.
    May 24, 2008
    9
    A welcome step away from the norm. Great dialog, graphics, enjoyable gameplay.
  14. TheCheezwhiz
    May 27, 2008
    10
    Awesome Game. Funny enough the PC Format and Edge magazine reviews were done by the same individual and managed to magically differ by 28 points - go figure.
  15. JesseS.
    May 28, 2008
    10
    Excellent gameplay, hilarious writing, crisp and colorful 2D/3D artwork. Everything a fan of Penny Arcade or Adventure RPGs could ask for.
  16. Master
    Jun 11, 2008
    8
    It' not a serious game, but its worth playing! As a break ,when playing serious game, its great!
  17. BrandonD.
    Jun 14, 2008
    10
    Never has such a minimalistic game delivered so much pure joy. The writing was fast, witty, and as slick as the aforementioned precipice of darkness. After finally figuring out the block aspect of the game, around 10-20 min in, I was in awe of the storyline that's depth mirrors an iceberg. You think, clowns, have to punch them all, and then you get engrossed in a conflict versus the Never has such a minimalistic game delivered so much pure joy. The writing was fast, witty, and as slick as the aforementioned precipice of darkness. After finally figuring out the block aspect of the game, around 10-20 min in, I was in awe of the storyline that's depth mirrors an iceberg. You think, clowns, have to punch them all, and then you get engrossed in a conflict versus the Gods themselves. Flashy comic book style graphics, simple yet satisfying controls, and hilarious writing give this game all you need, even for a beginner. The only downfall is that its in episodic format so you only get about 6 hours worth of millage out of it. I for one will be spamming F5 to refresh their page so as not to miss episode 2.… Expand
  18. JamesS.
    Jun 15, 2008
    8
    Was a fun game took me 8 hours to beat the game with every secret found so if your looking for a solid 7-8 hours of gameplay I would buy this.
  19. EricE
    Jul 15, 2008
    8
    Not a bad little adventure game. I enjoyed it, only lasted about 5 hours though. The only thing I didn't like is the unnecessary swearing throughout. No real purpose for it other then to swear. Probably could have created a edited version with no problem. Anyway... Still a good short game.
  20. KevinZ
    Jul 16, 2008
    9
    A truly delightful and addicting game! I bought this not expecting much, but I was drawn in after only 15 minutes. There is a great deal of humor, and you don't really need to be familiar with the comic to get it. Combat, while simple, is very fun and I didn't get bored of it. Unfortunately, there are relatively few puzzles that require only brain power. However, great game and A truly delightful and addicting game! I bought this not expecting much, but I was drawn in after only 15 minutes. There is a great deal of humor, and you don't really need to be familiar with the comic to get it. Combat, while simple, is very fun and I didn't get bored of it. Unfortunately, there are relatively few puzzles that require only brain power. However, great game and well worth the 20 dollars and 6 hours required to play it!… Expand
  21. JamesC
    Aug 24, 2008
    9
    This is easily the best game I have played in a long time. The story is entertaining and humorous; the characters are detailed and likable; and the combat is simple, yet challenging. Though it was somewhat short for $20, every minute was enjoyable, making it the best 8 hours I've ever had for $20. My only complaints are that the controls weren't always intuitive (it took me This is easily the best game I have played in a long time. The story is entertaining and humorous; the characters are detailed and likable; and the combat is simple, yet challenging. Though it was somewhat short for $20, every minute was enjoyable, making it the best 8 hours I've ever had for $20. My only complaints are that the controls weren't always intuitive (it took me until half way through the game to realize when I should block) and the story-based nature doesn't lend itself to replay or exploration. I absolutely loved playing this game and can't wait for the next episode.… Expand
  22. RyanD
    Sep 5, 2008
    8
    This game was better than I expected. It looks exactly like the comic, especially when it comes to characters. Voice acting would have been appreciated but it is still a fun but short game.
  23. KevlnS.
    May 21, 2008
    8
    It's good fun, but short. Oozing with PA style, great characters, funny dialogue, and an active/turn based combat system that will quickly wear out your space bar. Guaranteed to please PA fans, but may not provide much for everyone else.
  24. CoryP.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    An absolute pleasure to play, finished it once in a single sitting and then begun another play through. Can't wait for Episode 2 so I can carry my awesome characters (max level, max abilities etc) across to it. A must play for PA fans and anyone who loves a laugh.
  25. Steven
    May 22, 2008
    9
    It's probably worth noting that the two lowest scores -- PC Format's and Edge Magazine's -- are both from reviews written by the *same critic*. Several grains of salt should be taken.
  26. BillyJ.
    May 22, 2008
    10
    It's Penny Arcade. Distilled. Inserted into a game. What else can I say?
  27. TimothyO.
    May 23, 2008
    10
    I was really impressed by this game. It had a very captivating plot, a very good set of gameplay mechanics and definitely rang true of the fine works of Penny-Arcade!
  28. SethB.
    May 23, 2008
    10
    If you like Penny Arcade or Lovecraft you will find the game enjoyable since the writing is definitely for these kind of people.
  29. SorinB.
    May 24, 2008
    10
    Simply great! From the dialogues to the fighting system to the minigames. Looking forward to the next episodes.
  30. Justin
    May 25, 2008
    8
    A great game with a few hindering problems.
  31. JohnA.
    May 25, 2008
    9
    Outstanding game. A perfect game would include voice acting and camera control, but overall well worth the $20.
  32. Matt
    Jun 12, 2008
    9
    A well thought out game that truly touched the core of "what used to be" in the gaming industry. The experience is entertaining, challenging, and humorous. The fighting is well balanced and isn't the lame one button clicking that more recent games have become. The episodic approach is nice, but I know some will not like this approach. The benefit for the creators is a more open time A well thought out game that truly touched the core of "what used to be" in the gaming industry. The experience is entertaining, challenging, and humorous. The fighting is well balanced and isn't the lame one button clicking that more recent games have become. The episodic approach is nice, but I know some will not like this approach. The benefit for the creators is a more open time table and the ability to put more thought and detail into the experience. The downside is you are not buying a "whole game" in the classic sense. The fighting is good, and there is a range of enemies with both specific strengths and weaknesses. There's a lot of classic Final Fantasy feel. It might not be as dynamic as some folks would like, but it's GOOOOD, more so than I was even expecting. The boss battles are tough and require everything you've got. About the only thing I'd like more of is adventuring. The game play is rather linear and straight forward. Part of the classic adventure architecture is the open ended game play, roaming, just adventuring. The game is more exact and straight forward. You are always told what to do next, if not directly, in hints. There was little guess work. This is my only real gripe with the game.… Expand
  33. RobertT
    Jul 26, 2008
    9
    I enjoy PA, and I enjoyed this game. It's somewhat old-school rpg, in that you wait until you can preform an action (item, attack, or special attack) and you get to watch as each ability "recharges" The story is funny, the gameplay takes a little while to get used to, and the achievements they have are a fun diversion (though a couple of them are quite hard to achieve...no healing I enjoy PA, and I enjoyed this game. It's somewhat old-school rpg, in that you wait until you can preform an action (item, attack, or special attack) and you get to watch as each ability "recharges" The story is funny, the gameplay takes a little while to get used to, and the achievements they have are a fun diversion (though a couple of them are quite hard to achieve...no healing items on the last fight, or never letting anyone in the party die...those are pesky little tasks) I like it, it looks nice, plays well, and is a fun story.… Expand
  34. TimB
    May 25, 2009
    9
    Hilarious dark dialog and a brilliant take on adventure gaming. The cell shading is bright and suits the mood perfectly and I would recommend this to any one who can appreciate the Penny Arcade sense of humor. Not for everyone, but this game is for sure in my Top Ten ever.
  35. jlm264
    Feb 3, 2011
    9
    The game is amazing and would have gladly paid the $14 for it. Its a short game and is not to be enjoyed by all. It has a perverted humor and is sometimes disturbing to. I loved it and am just finishing the first one. I am getting ready to play the second chapter(got em both for $4 on steam!). I hope the 2nd game is even better and has a longer story.
  36. Larux18
    Mar 25, 2013
    9
    It is made by Penny Arcade! The main characters are Gabe and Tycho! Why would this game not be good? This game is a turn-based RPG really, with an old school vibe yet modern gameplay and hilarious story and dialogue. Since the pure beginning the story was extremely sympathetic and brought a smile to my face. The two main characters, Gabe and Tycho are hilarious and have a lot ofIt is made by Penny Arcade! The main characters are Gabe and Tycho! Why would this game not be good? This game is a turn-based RPG really, with an old school vibe yet modern gameplay and hilarious story and dialogue. Since the pure beginning the story was extremely sympathetic and brought a smile to my face. The two main characters, Gabe and Tycho are hilarious and have a lot of personality both in their dialogue and their combat, giving this game a personality itself. The turn-based combat is great, and although it may get tedious after a while there are always new stuff added to it so you can be entertained while fighting, and you can see your enemies! No annoying random battles! This game is completely enjoyable, especially for the low price it has, the downsides being a few tedious parts and annoying tasks with a few weird spikes in the difficulty curve. However that can be ignored, but this game if you want to have fun and have a good time.… Expand
  37. Kazduin
    Feb 11, 2013
    8
    After playing through both episodes, I've got to say that these two games have to be one of my most favorite pair of Indie Games ever. I never thought I'd hear myself give such high praise to a turn-based RPG(of which, I'm not too fond with turn based combat systems.) The writing alone makes these two games worth playing. It brings the humor of the Penny Arcade comics and the fun of an RPGAfter playing through both episodes, I've got to say that these two games have to be one of my most favorite pair of Indie Games ever. I never thought I'd hear myself give such high praise to a turn-based RPG(of which, I'm not too fond with turn based combat systems.) The writing alone makes these two games worth playing. It brings the humor of the Penny Arcade comics and the fun of an RPG and mashes them together, upgrades feel rewarding, the character customization feature is a really nice touch.(No matter what, your character looks like someone out of a Penny Arcade comic) and the enemies range from strange to down right bizarre. I was never a huge fan of the Penny Arcade comics, but these games are really fun. I've found myself laughing pretty hard at the comedic vulgarity which has a quite prominent existence throughout both of these games. There is a consistent atmosphere spanning each episode with each location being unique and fresh.… Expand
  38. Rej72380
    Mar 15, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Throughout the years of RPG history, there have been really great RPGs such as Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy X and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. And there are games such as Hotheat Games and Penny Arcade's satirical parley into the genre called "On The Rain Slick Precipice of Darkness Episode 1"

    The game starts out where your user-generated character does his chores when a giant robot comes along and steps on his house, spurring him into joining a detective agency run by perennial Penny Arcade characters Gabe and Tycho that deals with the super natural.

    Using the tried and true Diablo character movement controls (using a mouse), you explore your surroundings in the fictional 1920's town of New Arcadia, fighting enemies and completing quests for the various citizens. Using a comic book-style graphics scheme, the character models convey the humor associated with the Penny Arcade webcomic and the soundtrack does it job as excepted.

    While the game is short (around 10 hours long), On the Rain Slick Precipice of Darkness is still a nice RPG that fans of the Penny Arcade series and role-playing game fans can enjoy.    … Expand
  39. apokalipto
    Aug 23, 2023
    8
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.

Awards & Rankings

54
#54 Best PC Game of 2008
37
#37 Most Discussed PC Game of 2008
64
#64 Most Shared PC Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 1 out of 23
  1. Edge Magazine
    40
    With the episodic development cycle all but demanding that structure and form be locked down in the first instalment, with content added thereafter, the series' future looks precarious at best. [June 2008, p.90]
  2. GamesRadar+
    80
    Of course, the real star of PAA isn’t the gameplay, but the humor. It’s a lot like playing a comic strip, and should be approached as such.
    Read full review
  3. PC Gamer UK
    78
    An excellent piece of fan-service, but the actual game part doesn't stand up to much dispassionate scrutiny. And now, if you're not a Penny Arcade fan, you can't criticize it for that. It's not for you. [June 2008, p.74]
    Read full review
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