Pragmata’s diana globe: a japanese comedy secret uncovered
Capcom’s Pragmata isn’t just a lunar base escape – it’s a minefield of subtle, often hilarious, nods to Japanese comedy. The latest discovery? Diana’s handling of the Globe REM collectible is a brilliantly executed reference to the legendary comedian Gorgeous.
A pixelated punchline
Players quickly noticed a peculiar detail: after Diana rapidly spins the globe, her finger lands precisely on Madagascar. This sparked a flurry of comments on X, with one Japanese-speaking user succinctly putting it: “It’s so over-the-top gorgeous that it’s funny, but it’s also hilarious because overseas players won’t get the joke as it’s aimed at Japanese audiences.”
The source of the reference? The iconic comedian Gorgeous, known for his elaborate space pirate costumes and physical comedy. A recent tweet from Gorgeous himself – featuring a clip of Diana spinning the globe – confirmed the connection: “Spin it round and round! Then point to Madagascar. I want everyone to play Pragmata and experience it for themselves.”
The ‘mada tasukaru’ secret
The joke hinges on the Japanese phrase “mada tasukaru” (“we can still make it/be saved”), famously used in Gorgeous’s skit about being stranded on a mountain top. He mimes desperately trying to rouse his companion, spinning a globe and dramatically declaring “Madagascar!” – a play on “Madagasukaru,” which phonetically sounds remarkably similar to “mada tasukaru.”
Gorgeous, a prolific gamer with a dedicated YouTube following, has even livestreamed his experiences with games like Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake and Monster Hunter Wilds, demonstrating his keen eye for cultural references. Capcom’s involvement extends further, with Gorgeous appearing in a promotional video for Monster Hunter Wilds, embodying a futuristic space pirate while battling virtual monsters.
This isn’t an isolated instance; Death Stranding 2: On The Beach recently featured an Easter egg homage to the Japanese comedy troupe The Drifters, appearing in a hot spring scene. It’s clear that Capcom is subtly incorporating elements of Japanese culture, appealing to a specific audience with a well-timed, and delightfully obscure, joke. Pragmata is offering a genuinely rewarding experience for those willing to dig deeper.
Verity Townsend, a Japan-based freelance writer, noted that this kind of reference is increasingly common in Japanese games, aiming to resonate with domestic players. Ultimately, Pragmata’s Globe REM serves as a testament to the artistry of blending gameplay with culturally-specific humor – a detail that elevates the experience beyond a simple escape narrative.