We’re starting to think the entire gaming industry signed a pact to set every new release in Japan. We’ve drifted through Japan in Forza Horizon 6. We’ve explored Tokyo in countless hidden object games. We’ve battled monsters, raced cars and solved mysteries across the country. Now we’re driving a forklift around it. The question is: Do You Even Forklift?
The wonderfully titled Do You Even Forklift? has launched on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and PC, bringing a delightfully odd mix of physics puzzles, Japanese car culture and forklift-based problem solving to players for just £6.69.
At A Glance
- Game: Do You Even Forklift?
- Developer: Garage 5
- Publisher: Take IT Studio!
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC
- Price: £6.69
- Genre: Physics Puzzle Adventure
Every Problem Looks Like A Pallet
The basic idea behind Do You Even Forklift? is wonderfully simple. You’re a forklift. And as the game proudly points out, when all you have is a forklift, everything starts looking like something that needs lifting.
Set across a peaceful Japanese-inspired island, you’ll work your way through more than thirty puzzles, moving vehicles, solving environmental challenges and occasionally using your forklift in ways that probably wouldn’t pass a workplace safety inspection.
One moment you’ll be helping park tiny cars. The next you’ll be moving trucks that have stolen your parking space. Elsewhere you’ll be navigating alarms, gates and all manner of unexpected obstacles. It makes us think of it being a bit like a vehicular-themed Just Crow Things.
Ghibli Vibes Meet Warehouse Chaos
One of the more appealing aspects of Do You Even Forklift? is its presentation. The developers cite Studio Ghibli as an inspiration, with the game taking place across a colourful countryside setting packed with winding roads, small towns and plenty of charm. It’s a far cry from the industrial warehouses normally associated with forklifts.
There’s even a story running through the experience as you travel around the island, meeting locals and uncovering new challenges. And yes, you can learn how to make ramen too. Using a forklift.
Ready To Lift Everything?
Do You Even Forklift? is available right now on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S (Xbox Store), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and PC for £6.69.
It’s quirky, it’s unusual, and it might just be one of the strangest games we’ve seen arrive this year. But if you’re looking for something different from the usual shooters, racers and RPGs…
