### Exploring the Absurdity of goblinAmerica: A Unique Take on American History
Towards the end of goblinAmerica’s tutorial level, players encounter a unique and bizarre scene: the violent destruction of a cherry tree. This spectacle is emblematic of the game’s overall tone, which fuses absurdity with dark humor. The cherry tree itself is depicted as grotesque—unlike any natural tree, its beige, rubbery form bears hard, tacky fruits resembling dumbbells. The depiction of its demise is as tragic as it is absurd, evoking a twisted sense of satisfaction among players who participate in its downfall.
The cherry tree’s significance may not be immediately clear to those outside the United States. It alludes to a well-known folk story involving George Washington, the game’s tutorial mission’s star. According to this tale, a young Washington famously chopped down a cherry tree and earned his father’s respect by admitting to the act rather than lying. This anecdote serves as a satirical foundation for goblinAmerica, a first-person shooter that reimagines a fantastical version of American history where each President’s moment of failure or moral downfall is explored.
In this chaotic re-telling, players inhabit the role of goblin versions of each President, navigating a world constructed from kaiju innards, embroiled in celestial warfare. The narrative invites players to experience each President’s so-called “worst moments,” with the premise introduced by a whimsical, haunted character—a gasmask that exudes both humor and horror. The tutorial kicks off in a grotesque setting where players leap from the maw of a devouring Venus flytrap, hinting at the game’s offbeat and irreverent tone.
As players progress, they encounter several historical figures and events reimagined through the lens of the game’s ludicrous style. For instance, in the level featuring Abraham Lincoln, players must navigate an alternate history where Lincoln narrowly avoids assassination by John Wilkes Booth. The dialogue, filled with awkward humor, transforms significant moments from history into farcical episodes, reflecting a world where the absurd is the norm.
The game’s aesthetic is equally striking, with environments and characters that challenge conventional designs. Vehicles resemble items made of pancake batter, while buildings appear to be fashioned from snakeskin. The vibrant visuals and bizarre character designs contribute to a surreal atmosphere that encourages exploration and curiosity. Although the demo hints at fast-paced, movement-based gameplay reminiscent of titles like Tribes: Ascend, it still leaves room for players to discover hidden secrets and experiment with mechanics.
While goblinAmerica’s outrageous style and humor may sometimes feel like mere chaos for chaos’s sake, it draws comparisons to other indie titles like Cruelty Squad and Sluggish Morss: Pattern Circus. However, it is noted that goblinAmerica has not yet reached the same level of thematic depth or narrative purpose found in those games. Nevertheless, the prospect of interacting with a rancid roster of American presidents in such a uniquely grotesque environment piques curiosity.
For those intrigued by this unconventional take on American history, the demo of goblinAmerica is available on Steam. Its early access launch promises more bizarre adventures that intertwine surreal elements with a satirical view of historical events. As the game develops, players will undoubtedly be eager to see how it expands upon its eccentric premise and delivers a truly unique gaming experience.