Does Mother 3 Take Place After EarthBound?
The Mother series, also known as EarthBound in North America, is a beloved franchise of role-playing games developed by Ape and HAL Laboratory. The series consists of three games: EarthBound Beginnings, EarthBound, and Mother 3. While the games are not directly connected by a linear storyline, they share a common universe and many recurring elements. One of the most debated topics among fans is the relationship between EarthBound and Mother 3, particularly whether Mother 3 takes place after EarthBound.
The Official Word
According to the game’s creator, Shigesato Itoi, Mother 3 does not take place after EarthBound. In an interview, Itoi stated that Mother 3 is a standalone game that does not have a direct connection to EarthBound. He also mentioned that the game’s story is not a sequel to EarthBound, but rather a new and independent narrative.
The Setting
Mother 3 takes place in the Nowhere Islands, a fictional archipelago that is not directly connected to the setting of EarthBound. The game’s story begins with the protagonist, Lucas, and his twin brother Claus, who live in a small village on the Nowhere Islands. The game’s setting is distinct from EarthBound’s, which takes place in the United States and focuses on a group of children who become embroiled in a mysterious phenomenon.
The Characters
While there are no direct connections between the characters of EarthBound and Mother 3, some fans have pointed out similarities between the two games’ protagonists. Lucas and Claus, the twin brothers of Mother 3, share some similarities with Ness, the protagonist of EarthBound. Both characters are young, innocent, and have a strong sense of justice. However, their personalities and motivations are distinct, and they do not share a direct connection.
The Story
The story of Mother 3 is also distinct from EarthBound’s. While both games feature a mysterious phenomenon that threatens the world, the tone and themes of the two games are different. Mother 3’s story is more focused on the personal struggles of its characters, particularly Lucas and Claus, as they deal with the loss of their mother and the impending doom of their world. EarthBound’s story, on the other hand, is more focused on the battle between good and evil, with Ness and his friends fighting against an alien invasion.
The Connection
Despite the lack of a direct connection between the two games, there are some subtle connections between EarthBound and Mother 3. The Mr. Saturn, a recurring character in the Mother series, appears in both games. Additionally, some fans have pointed out similarities between the two games’ soundtracks, with both featuring catchy and memorable melodies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Mother 3 does not take place after EarthBound, the two games share a common universe and some recurring elements. The game’s setting, characters, and story are distinct from EarthBound’s, but fans of the series can still appreciate the connections and similarities between the two games. Whether you’re a fan of EarthBound or Mother 3, the Mother series is a must-play for anyone who loves role-playing games with unique stories and characters.
Timeline
Here is a rough timeline of the Mother series:
- EarthBound Beginnings (1989)
- EarthBound (1994)
- Mother 3 (2006)
Key Points
- Mother 3 does not take place after EarthBound.
- The game’s setting, characters, and story are distinct from EarthBound’s.
- The Mr. Saturn appears in both games.
- Some fans have pointed out similarities between the two games’ soundtracks.
- The Mother series is a standalone franchise with its own unique universe and storylines.