AFL's 'Absurd' Rules Inspire Retro-Style Video Game from Danger 5 Creator

The mind behind the cult TV series Danger

The mind behind the cult TV series Danger 5 has channeled a love-hate relationship with Australian rules football into a new video game that leans into the sport's more chaotic elements. The result, Pro Jank Footy, blends deliberately dated 1990s graphics with over-the-top power-ups, turning a national pastime into a playground of absurdity.

Creator Matt Young, known for his irreverent humor, says the game was born from a place of genuine frustration mixed with affection. He describes the AFL rulebook as 'ridiculous' in the best possible way, citing its constant interpretations and baffling decisions as prime material for parody. The game doesn't aim for realism; instead, it exaggerates the sport's quirks into gameplay mechanics that reward unpredictability.

Players can expect to see bizarre additions like teleporting players, exploding Sherrins, and gravity-defying marks that defy physics. These elements are deliberately designed to mock the serious tone of professional broadcasts while celebrating the raw, unpolished joy of weekend footy. Young notes that the game's janky controls and pixelated visuals are intentional, paying homage to the era of cartridge-based sports titles.

Despite its comedic approach, Pro Jank Footy is

Despite its comedic approach, Pro Jank Footy is crafted with a clear understanding of the game's rules, twisting them just enough to create mayhem. Young and his team spent months studying match footage and rule changes, ensuring the satire lands with fans who know the sport inside out. The game also includes commentary that pokes fun at clichéd match-day phrases.

Early previews have drawn comparisons to cult classics like NBA Jam, but with a distinctly Australian flavor. The game is set to release for PC and consoles later this year, with a demo already available for those eager to experience the chaos. For Young, the project is less about mocking the sport and more about celebrating its enduring, often inexplicable, appeal.