What is EarthBound called in Japan?

What is EarthBound Called in Japan?

EarthBound, a beloved role-playing video game, has been making waves in the gaming world since its release in 1994. But did you know that it has a different name in Japan? Yes, you read that right! In Japan, EarthBound is known as Mother 2 (MOTHER 2: Giigū no Gyakushū, literally "Mother 2: Giigū’s Counterattack").

History of the Game

Developed by Ape Inc. and HAL Laboratory, EarthBound was released in North America in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game was initially called EarthBound outside of Japan, while in Japan, it was referred to as Mother 2. This renaming was done to appeal to a broader audience and to create a sense of freshness in the market.

Reasons for the Name Change

So, why did the game get a new name in North America? According to an interview with Shigesato Itoi, the creator of the Mother series, the name "EarthBound" was chosen to convey the idea of the game’s story being set in an imaginary world that is a representation of our own reality. The name "EarthBound" was also intended to evoke a sense of connection between the game and the player’s own reality.

Mother Series in Japan

The Mother series is a beloved franchise in Japan, with three main games: Mother (1989), Mother 2 (1994), and Mother 3 (2006). The series is known for its quirky characters, engaging storylines, and unique gameplay mechanics.

Comparison between the Games

Here’s a brief comparison between the North American version of EarthBound and the Japanese version of Mother 2:

Conclusion

In conclusion, EarthBound is indeed called Mother 2 in Japan. The renaming was done to appeal to a broader audience and to create a sense of freshness in the market. While the gameplay and story remain largely the same, the North American version has a different soundtrack and graphics. If you’re interested in learning more about the Mother series, I highly recommend checking out the Japanese version of Mother 2!

Additional Resources

If you’re interested in learning more about the Mother series, here are some additional resources you can check out:

• Mother (1989): The original game in the series, available on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
• Mother 3 (2006): The final game in the series, available on the Nintendo Game Boy Advance.
• The EarthBound 10th Anniversary Documentary: A documentary that explores the making of EarthBound and its impact on the gaming world.

I hope this article has been informative and entertaining! Let me know if you have any further questions or comments.