Penny Arcade Adventures is a game that needs to be played, whether or not you're a fan of the comic.
The game, instead of retreading plots already featured in the comic, creates a brand-new world: New Arcadia, which is somewhat of a cross between Gotham City and H.P. Lovecraft's Arkham. The grimy streets overflow with feral hobos, diabolical clowns, animated garbage, and, of course, robotic fruit molesters.
The player doesn't play as either of the famous characters; instead, you will create your own avatar that quickly joins up with the pair. In the game, they run a paranormal detective service, known as the Startling Developments Detective Agency. When giant robots and mimes attack the city, there is nothing to do but suit up and head out to combat the menace.
Speaking of combat...PAA uses a turn-based system with a twist. In many ways, it is similar to traditional ATB systems, but with each possible action having its own cooldown meter. This adds an interesting element of strategy; should you pile on the weak, quicker attacks, or take the time to use one of the character's special attacks? The battle system is one of two features that makes this game so great.
The second is the humor. Written, entirely by Penny Arcade wordsmith Jerry "Tycho" Holkins, the dialog, item descriptions, and even quests, elicit laugh after laugh. For example, it's common for there to be rewards at the end of a quest...How often has that reward been lint?
For fans of the comic, this game is even better. Characters make cameo appearances, and it's always a thrill to meet a familiar face. That isn't to say that a new reader won't enjoy the game; far from it. There's just another layer for someone experienced.
In short, if you like Penny Arcade, you need this game. Simple as that. If you don't know Penny Arcade, consider this your introduction.
9/10