Should you play the Mother series in order?

Should you play the Mother series in order?

The Mother series, also known as EarthBound outside of Japan, is a beloved series of role-playing games developed by Ape and HAL Laboratory. The series consists of three games: Mother (1989), Mother 2 (1994), and Mother 3 (2006). When it comes to playing the series, many fans have debated whether it’s necessary to play the games in order or if you can jump in at any point. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of playing the Mother series in order, and provide some insight on how to approach this unique and quirky series.

The Benefits of Playing the Series in Order

• Story coherence: The Mother series has a unique and complex storyline that spans across all three games. Playing the series in order will allow you to understand the narrative and its themes more clearly. You’ll be able to see how the characters and their actions evolve over time, and how the story comes full circle.
• Character development: The Mother series is known for its quirky and lovable characters. Playing the series in order will allow you to watch these characters grow and develop over time. You’ll be able to see how their personalities and relationships change and evolve, which adds depth to the story and characters.
• Context and references: The Mother series is full of references and nods to the games that came before. Playing the series in order will allow you to pick up on these references and appreciate the game’s development and evolution.

The Drawbacks of Playing the Series in Order

• Time commitment: The Mother series is known for its length and complexity. Playing the series in order will require a significant time commitment, which may not be feasible for everyone.
• Spoiler alert: If you play the series in order, you may be spoiled for the games that come later. If you’re sensitive to spoilers, you may want to avoid playing the series in order.
• Potential burnout: The Mother series is known for its challenging gameplay and complex storytelling. Playing the series in order may lead to burnout, especially if you’re not used to this type of gameplay.

Playing the Series Out of Order

• Choose the game that interests you the most: If you’re not sure where to start, choose the game that interests you the most. If you’re interested in the story and characters, start with Mother 2 (EarthBound). If you’re interested in the gameplay and battle system, start with Mother.
• Start with the most accessible game: Mother 3 is often considered the most accessible game in the series, with a more streamlined battle system and a more straightforward storyline.
• Play the series as a standalone experience: Each game in the series can be played as a standalone experience, with its own unique story and gameplay. You can play each game without worrying about spoiling the others.

The Verdict

Playing the Mother series in order is not necessary, but it is recommended if you want to fully appreciate the story, characters, and gameplay. However, if you’re short on time or prefer to play games in a different order, you can still enjoy the series as a standalone experience. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

Conclusion

The Mother series is a unique and beloved series of games that has captured the hearts of many fans. Whether you choose to play the series in order or out of order, the most important thing is to enjoy the game and appreciate its quirks and charms. With this guide, you’ll be able to approach the series with confidence and make the most of your gaming experience.