In a delightful treat for fans, the Monty Python-inspired tabletop role-playing game, which gained traction through a successful crowdfunding effort in 2022, is now making its grand entrance into the gaming world. Officially called Monty Python’s Cocurricular Mediaeval Reenactment Programme, the game humorously delivers exactly what it promises. Although, what’s promised is a quirky mix described as faintly reminiscent of SPAM, laced with the peculiar scents of bizarre antics and unexpected surprises. If that’s not exactly your style, you might want to look elsewhere for entertainment. However, if you’re ready to grab a pair of coconuts and fully immerse yourself in this offbeat experience, you’re in for a treat perfect for the most passionate fans of the comedy troupe.
The book is essentially an extension of the Monty Python universe, complete with all the annotations, randomness, and quirky sketches you’d expect. The artwork is particularly extravagant, sprawling across pages with integrated pieces by a variety of artists. Yet, while it maintains its cohesion throughout, the enthusiasm of its presentation can occasionally feel overwhelming, particularly if you’re simply trying to understand the game mechanics.
The true gems of this game lie in a series of 10 interconnected quests spread over nearly 60 pages at the end of the book. If you chose to dive right into these quests, the $50 investment in the Sensible Middle Class Edition would be justified. Each quest is cleverly crafted to drop players right into a Monty Python skit, some drawing directly from episodes or movie scenes, while others are invented from the remnants of classic commercials.
The most engaging adventures involve a sandbox scenario on an island where you can joyfully torment the French, robustly designed to allow characters to venture into their own narratives. These scenarios are predominantly focused on setting the stage, encouraging players to improvise and solve problems using the peculiar logic that defines the Monty Python universe. They make for excellent one-off escapades with the included pre-made characters, featuring glorious set-piece spectacles. In a particularly humorous twist, some adventures require the game master to become none other than God Almighty, descending from the clouds to hand down vague and hurried directives.
