Nintendo. (1994). EarthBound [Super Nintendo Entertainment System]. Nintendo.

EarthBound, originally released in Japan as Mother 2: Gīgu no Gyakushū, is a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Ape Inc. and HAL Laboratory for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Directed by Shigesato Itoi and published by Nintendo, it is the second installment in the Mother series. The game was released in Japan in 1994 and in North America in 1995. Despite initially receiving mixed reviews and lackluster sales outside Japan, it gained a cult following and is now regarded as one of the most innovative RPGs of its era.

The gameplay revolves around a young boy named Ness and his friends as they journey across a modern-day world to defeat an alien force known as Giygas. EarthBound deviates from traditional fantasy RPG settings by embracing a contemporary, quirky atmosphere filled with humorous dialogue and satirical takes on American culture. Players explore towns, interact with non-playable characters, and fight enemies in turn-based battles.

One of EarthBound's standout features is its rolling health meter, which acts like a timer, giving players a chance to heal before taking fatal damage. The battle system emphasizes strategy, with players using psychic abilities, items, and standard attacks. Random encounters are replaced with visible enemies on the map, and weaker foes automatically surrender when approached. The game also incorporates an inventory management system, where each character has a limited carrying capacity, adding a layer of resource management.

The game is noted for its whimsical art style, catchy music blending various genres, and unconventional story themes, including friendship, individuality, and the balance of good and evil. Its legacy has influenced numerous games and continues to resonate with fans due to its originality and charm.