32 Single-Panel Comics That Perfectly Capture the Absurdity of Pop Culture

There’s something uniquely satisfying about a single-panel comic. It’s like a punchline without the setup, a joke that hits you before you even realize what’s happening. I first stumbled across Ben Chen’s work while procrastinating online, and I’ve been hooked ever since. His dark, twisted take on pop culture icons is equal parts hilarious and unsettling. Whether he’s reimagining Mario as a washed-up plumber or turning SpongeBob into a existential nightmare, these single panel comics are a masterclass in dark humor.

This gathering of 32 single panel comics by Ben Chen is a journey into the absurd. Each comic takes a familiar character or concept and twists it into something darkly funny. You’ll see Mario struggling with midlife crisis, Batman questioning his life choices, and SpongeBob contemplating the futility of existence. Chen’s art style is simple yet effective, letting the humor shine through without unnecessary clutter. Regardless of if you’re a fan of dark comedy or just enjoy seeing your childhood heroes in bizarre situations, these comics are sure to leave an impression.

You just scrolled through 32 single panel comics that made you laugh, cringe, and question your sanity. You saw Mario in a therapist’s office, Batman crying in the Batcave, and SpongeBob staring into the void. Each comic was a masterclass in dark humor, blending absurdity with just enough truth to make it sting. We hope you are now wondering how Ben Chen comes up with this stuff—and why it’s so relatable.

If you enjoyed these single panel comics, why not explore more meme galleries on Thunder Dungeon? Check out our collection of other talented toon artists for more laughs about life’s absurdities. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, our gallery of wholesome memes might be just what you’re looking for. Whatever your taste, we’ve got plenty of content to keep you entertained.