What Did EarthBound Inspire?
EarthBound, a cult classic role-playing game developed by Ape and HAL Laboratory, has had a profound impact on the gaming industry. Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, EarthBound’s unique blend of humor, satire, and storytelling has inspired a generation of game developers. In this article, we’ll explore the many games, developers, and franchises that have been inspired by EarthBound’s innovative approach to game design.
Indie Games
EarthBound’s influence can be seen in many indie games that have followed in its footsteps. One of the most notable examples is Undertale, a critically acclaimed game developed by Toby Fox. Undertale’s story, characters, and gameplay mechanics are heavily inspired by EarthBound, and the game’s success can be attributed in part to its nostalgic value for fans of the classic RPG.
- Other indie games inspired by EarthBound include:
- Omori, a psychological horror RPG with a similar atmosphere and setting to EarthBound.
- Yume Nikki, a surreal and dreamlike adventure game that shares similarities with EarthBound’s unique storytelling approach.
- Axiom Verge, a metroidvania game that pays homage to EarthBound’s 8-bit era and incorporates similar gameplay mechanics.
JRPGs
EarthBound’s influence can also be seen in many Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs). Games like Persona 5 and Catherine have been inspired by EarthBound’s blend of social simulation and dungeon crawling.
- Other JRPGs inspired by EarthBound include:
- The World Ends with You, a JRPG that shares similarities with EarthBound’s unique battle system and setting.
- Lost Sphear, a JRPG that pays homage to EarthBound’s 8-bit era and incorporates similar gameplay mechanics.
- Octopath Traveler, a JRPG that features a similar HD-2D visual style to EarthBound.
Western RPGs
EarthBound’s influence can also be seen in many Western role-playing games (WRPGs). Games like Mass Effect and The Witcher have been inspired by EarthBound’s storytelling approach and character development.
- Other WRPGs inspired by EarthBound include:
- Bastion, a WRPG that shares similarities with EarthBound’s narrative-driven approach and features a similar atmospheric soundtrack.
- Pillars of Eternity, a CRPG that pays homage to EarthBound’s classic RPG elements and incorporates similar gameplay mechanics.
- Divinity: Original Sin 2, a CRPG that features a similar isometric perspective to EarthBound and incorporates similar combat mechanics.
Table: Games Inspired by EarthBound
| Game | Developer | Release Year | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undertale | Toby Fox | 2015 | PC, PS4, PS Vita |
| Omori | OMOCAT | 2019 | PC, PS4, PS Vita |
| Yume Nikki | Kikiyama | 2004 | PC |
| Axiom Verge | Thomas Happ Games | 2015 | PC, PS4, PS Vita |
| Persona 5 | Atlus | 2016 | PS3, PS4 |
| Catherine | Atlus | 2011 | PS3, PS4 |
| The World Ends with You | Square Enix | 2007 | DS |
| Lost Sphear | Square Enix | 2017 | PS4, PC |
| Octopath Traveler | Square Enix | 2018 | PS4, PC, Switch |
| Mass Effect | BioWare | 2007 | PC, Xbox 360, PS3 |
| The Witcher | CD Projekt RED | 2007 | PC, Xbox 360, PS3 |
| Bastion | Supergiant Games | 2011 | PC, Xbox 360, PS3 |
| Pillars of Eternity | Obsidian Entertainment | 2015 | PC, PS4, PS Vita |
| Divinity: Original Sin 2 | Larian Studios | 2017 | PC, PS4, PS Vita |
In conclusion, EarthBound’s influence can be seen in many games across various genres and platforms. From indie games like Undertale and Omori to JRPGs like Persona 5 and Catherine, EarthBound’s unique approach to game design has inspired a generation of game developers. Whether it’s through its storytelling, characters, or gameplay mechanics, EarthBound’s legacy continues to be felt in the gaming industry today.