
EarthBound
EarthBound, known as Mother in Japan, is a role-playing video game developed by Ape Inc. and HAL Laboratory, and published by Nintendo. The game follows Ness, a young boy with psychic abilities, and his friends as they journey across the world to collect melodies and defeat the cosmic horror Giygas.
Controls
About This Game
EarthBound features unconventional gameplay mechanics for an RPG, including a rolling HP meter, modern real-world settings, and humorous dialogue. The game was directed by Shigesato Itoi with music by Keiichi Suzuki and Hirokazu Tanaka.
Initially released in Japan in 1989, EarthBound didn't receive a Western release until 1995. Despite poor initial sales, it gained a massive cult following and is now considered one of the greatest video games of all time.
The game's unique blend of American pop culture references, psychedelic visuals, and deep psychological themes created a distinctive experience that influenced countless later RPGs.
Related Games
1986
RPGThe game that defined Japanese RPGs, Dragon Quest (known as Dragon Warrior in North America initially) introduced core mechanics that became genre staples: turn-based combat, experience points, and equipment progression.
1987
RPGThe first JRPG sequel expands the adventure with three playable descendants of Erdrick. Journey across continents to defeat the malevolent Hargon in this groundbreaking title that introduced party mechanics and ship travel to the genre.
1988
RPGThe epic conclusion to the Erdrick Trilogy, Dragon Quest III follows a young hero destined to defeat the archfiend Baramos. Featuring a revolutionary class system and expansive world, it set new standards for JRPGs and remains one of the most influential games in the genre.
1990
RPGDragon Quest IV is a landmark JRPG that introduced a revolutionary chapter-based narrative structure. The game follows multiple protagonists whose stories eventually converge in an epic quest to save the world from the evil Necrosaro.





