When Did Things Get So Expensive?

Rhett & Link take on the challenge of "Penny Punchers," a game designed to highlight the dramatic price increases of common goods over the past decade or two. The duo, clad in boxing robes, must accurately guess the historical prices of items to avoid a nasty punch. This article delves into the economic realities explored in their game, examining how inflation and other factors have reshaped consumer spending.

The Rules of Engagement

In "Penny Punchers," Rhett & Link are presented with an item and its current retail price. Their task is to collaboratively guess its price in a specific past year. They then take turns punching a boxing machine to input their dollar and cent guesses. To win a round, their guess must be within 20% of the actual historical price. The ultimate goal is to win three out of four rounds. A crucial rule: no more than five total punches per round, adding a strategic layer to their bidding.