If you’re a fan of EarthBound, you’re in luck! There are plenty of fantastic games out there that capture the same quirky charm and memorable storytelling.
Whether you’re a fan of the Mother series or just looking for some offbeat RPGs to dive into, this list has got you covered. So grab your Ness hat and get ready to embark on an adventure like no other!
Mother
Let’s start with the game that started it all – Mother. Originally released only in Japan for the NES, this game follows the story of a young boy named Ninten as he sets out on a quest to save the world from an alien invasion. With its blend of humor, heart, and turn-based battles, Mother laid the foundation for the beloved series.
The game takes place in a world that closely resembles our own, with cities, towns, and even a suburban neighborhood for Ninten to explore. This setting added a sense of familiarity and relatability to the game, making it easier for players to connect with the characters and their journey.
In addition to its setting, Mother introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that would become staples of the series. One such mechanic is the rolling HP meter, a precursor to EarthBound’s iconic HP system. Instead of having a fixed number of hit points, characters in Mother have a meter that continuously rolls down during battles.
This added an extra layer of strategy to combat, as players had to carefully manage their resources and time their attacks and healing spells accordingly.
Mother is known for its quirky and memorable cast of characters. From the psychic girl named Ana to the lovable dog companion named King, each character brings their own unique abilities and personality to the game. The interactions between these characters not only provide moments of humor but also deepen the emotional connection players feel towards the story.
If you’re a fan of retro gaming or want to experience the origins of EarthBound, Mother is a must-play. Its charming world, engaging gameplay mechanics, and unforgettable characters make it a standout title in the RPG genre. So grab your trusty baseball bat and join Ninten on his quest to save the world from the alien menace!
- Release Date: July 27, 1989
- Platforms: Famicom, Wii U (Virtual Console)
- Developer: Ape Inc.
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Genre: RPG
Mother 3
If you can’t get enough of the Mother series, Mother 3 is a must-play. Although it was never officially released outside of Japan, dedicated fans have gone through the painstaking process of translating the game into English.
This game follows the story of Lucas, a young boy on a quest to save his homeland from corruption and destruction. As you embark on this epic journey alongside Lucas, you will be immersed in a rich and vibrant world filled with fascinating characters and breathtaking landscapes.
It delves into complex themes such as loss, grief, and the resilience of the human spirit. The game explores the emotional struggles of its characters, allowing players to form deep connections with them.
One of the standout features of Mother 3 is its unique rhythm-based battle system. Unlike traditional turn-based combat, this system requires players to time their attacks and defenses to the beat of the game’s music. This adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to battles, making each encounter a thrilling and engaging experience.
As you progress through the game, you will encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. From quirky allies to formidable enemies, the interactions between these characters add depth and complexity to the story, making every encounter a memorable one.
Mother 3 is not just a game; it is an emotional journey that will tug at your heartstrings. Its thought-provoking story, captivating gameplay, and stunning visuals make it a true gem of the RPG genre. Whether you are a fan of the Mother series or new to the franchise, Mother 3 is an experience that should not be missed.
- Release Date: April 20, 2006
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance
- Developer: Brownie Brown, HAL Laboratory
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Genre: RPG
Undertale
If you’re in the mood for a game that subverts traditional RPG tropes, look no further than Undertale. This indie darling took the gaming world by storm with its innovative gameplay and unforgettable characters. In Undertale, you play as a child who has fallen into the Underground, a world full of monsters.
As you navigate through the Underground, you’ll encounter a wide array of unique and fascinating creatures. From the mischievous skeleton brothers, Sans and Papyrus, to the determined fish warrior, Undyne, each character in Undertale is beautifully crafted and leaves a lasting impression on players.
Unlike traditional RPGs where battles are inevitable, Undertale gives players the option to fight or spare their enemies. This decision may seem simple, but it has far-reaching consequences that impact the game’s story and characters.
Choosing to fight will lead to intense and challenging battles, where you’ll have to navigate through bullet hell-style attacks. On the other hand, sparing your enemies requires a different approach. You’ll need to engage in conversations and find non-violent solutions to conflicts.
These choices not only affect the outcome of the game but also shape the relationships you form with the characters you encounter.
Undertale’s writing is clever and filled with humor, often breaking the fourth wall and playing with player expectations. The game’s dialogue is witty and memorable, making each interaction with the characters a delight.
Undertale is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, unforgettable characters, clever writing, and mesmerizing soundtrack make it a must-play for any EarthBound fan or anyone looking for a truly unique gaming experience.
- Release Date: September 15, 2015
- Platforms: PC, PS4, PS Vita, Switch
- Developer & Publisher: Toby Fox
- Genre: RPG
Lisa: The Painful RPG
Lisa: The Painful RPG is not for the faint of heart. This post-apocalyptic game tackles heavy themes such as loss, addiction, and redemption. Set in a world where women have mysteriously disappeared, you play as Brad, a middle-aged man on a mission to find his adoptive daughter.
As you embark on this harrowing adventure, you will traverse through desolate landscapes, encountering remnants of a society that has crumbled under the weight of despair. The game’s hauntingly beautiful art style captures the bleakness of the world, with muted colors and dilapidated structures serving as constant reminders of the devastation that surrounds you.
Every decision you make carries weight and consequences, forcing you to carefully consider your choices. Will you prioritize your own survival or sacrifice your well-being for the sake of others?
Throughout your journey, you will encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and struggles. Some will aid you on your quest, while others may betray you or test your resolve.
The game’s dark humor serves as a coping mechanism in this grim world, providing moments of levity amidst the despair. The witty dialogue and cleverly crafted jokes offer a brief respite from the weight of the game’s themes, allowing players to momentarily escape the harsh reality they find themselves in.
As you progress through the game, the difficulty ramps up significantly, testing your skills and perseverance. Battles are intense and strategic, requiring you to carefully manage your resources and make tactical decisions.
Even after completing Lisa: The Painful RPG, its impact lingers. The game’s exploration of loss, addiction, and redemption leaves a lasting impression, forcing players to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make.
- Release Date: December 15, 2014
- Platforms: PC
- Developer & Publisher: Dingaling Productions
- Genre: RPG
OFF
OFF is a surreal and atmospheric RPG that will keep you on the edge of your seat. In this game, you play as the Batter, a mysterious individual on a mission to purify the world by defeating spectres. With its minimalist art style and haunting soundtrack, OFF creates a unique and unsettling atmosphere.
What sets OFF apart from other RPGs is its unconventional storytelling and puzzles. You’ll encounter strange characters, solve cryptic riddles, and uncover the truth behind the world of OFF.
If you’re a fan of atmospheric games that leave you with more questions than answers, OFF is the perfect choice.
- Release Date: 2008
- Platforms: PC
- Developer: Mortis Ghost, Unproductive Fun Time
- Genre: RPG
Citizens of Earth
If you’re looking for a game that combines EarthBound’s humor with modern gameplay mechanics, look no further than Citizens of Earth. In this quirky RPG, you play as the newly elected Vice President of the World as you investigate a mysterious conspiracy.
Citizens of Earth features an expansive world to explore and a diverse cast of characters to recruit to your party. With its clever writing, charming visuals, and addictive combat system, this game is a love letter to EarthBound and a must-play for fans of the genre.
- Release Date: January 20, 2015
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Wii U, 3DS, PS Vita
- Developer: Eden Industries
- Publisher: Atlus
- Genre: RPG
Contact
Contact is a lesser-known gem for the Nintendo DS that deserves more recognition. In this game, you play as Terry, a young boy who discovers a mysterious extraterrestrial object and is suddenly thrust into a world-saving adventure.
Contact features unique gameplay mechanics that blur the line between fiction and reality. You’ll communicate directly with the game’s developer, engage in turn-based battles, and uncover the truth behind Terry’s extraordinary journey. It’s a game that will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Release Date: March 30, 2006
- Platforms: Nintendo DS
- Developer: Grasshopper Manufacture
- Publisher: Atlus (NA), Marvelous Entertainment (JP)
- Genre: RPG
Omori
Omori is a psychological horror RPG that will leave you on the edge of your seat. In this game, you play as Omori, a boy who finds himself trapped in a dark and twisted world known as the “Deep Well.”
With its eerie atmosphere, stunning visuals, and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, Omori creates an immersive and unsettling experience. The game also features a unique battle system that combines turn-based combat with timed attacks.
If you’re a fan of psychological horror or enjoy games that push the boundaries of storytelling, Omori is a must-play.
- Release Date: December 25, 2020
- Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
- Developer: Omocat
- Publisher: Playism
- Genre: RPG
Yume Nikki
If you’re in the mood for something truly unique, look no further than Yume Nikki. This cult classic game follows the surreal adventures of a young girl named Madotsuki as she explores her dreams.
Yume Nikki is an experimental game that features no dialogue or traditional objectives. Instead, you’re free to explore Madotsuki’s dreamscape and uncover its hidden secrets.
With haunting visuals and atmospheric sound design, Yume Nikki is a game that will leave a lasting impression.
- Release Date: June 26, 2004
- Platforms: PC
- Developer & Publisher: Kikiyama
- Genre: Adventure
Space Funeral
Space Funeral is a bizarre and surreal RPG that defies conventional gaming norms. In this game, you play as Phillip, a man on a quest to find his way home in a world plagued by darkness and despair.
With its absurdist humor, psychedelic visuals, and unconventional gameplay mechanics, Space Funeral is a truly unique experience. It’s a game that embraces the weird and challenges your expectations of what a RPG can be.
- Release Date: 2010
- Platforms: PC
- Developer: thecatamites
- Genre: RPG
Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass
If you’re looking for a game that embraces the surreal and the bizarre, then Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass is the perfect choice. This indie RPG takes you on a captivating journey through the imaginative mind of a young boy named Jimmy.
As you delve deeper into the game, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world that defies logic and reality. Jimmy’s mind is a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and strange landscapes, each more fantastical than the last. From floating islands in the sky to underwater cities inhabited by talking sea creatures, every corner of this game is a visual feast for the eyes.
Unlike traditional RPGs, where battles can become repetitive and predictable, Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass keeps you on your toes with its challenging combat system. Each enemy you face has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, forcing you to strategize and adapt your tactics accordingly.
But the battles are not just about defeating enemies. They also serve as a metaphor for Jimmy’s internal struggles. As you progress through the game, you’ll come face to face with the pulsating mass itself, a mysterious force that threatens to consume Jimmy’s mind. These encounters are intense and emotionally charged, as you fight to protect Jimmy’s sanity and unravel the secrets of the pulsating mass.
Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass is a game that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay. It’s a journey into the depths of a young boy’s imagination, filled with wonder, danger, and self-discovery.
- Release Date: August 7, 2018
- Platforms: PC
- Developer & Publisher: Kasey Ozymy
- Genre: RPG
CrossCode
Combining retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics, CrossCode is a game that effortlessly captures the spirit of EarthBound. Set in a virtual reality MMORPG, you’ll assume the role of Lea, a young girl who has lost her memories.
The game’s developers have painstakingly crafted every pixel of the game to create a truly breathtaking experience. From the lush green fields to the towering mountains, every location in CrossWorlds is a work of art.
But CrossCode is more than just a pretty game. It’s a game that challenges your mind and reflexes. The fast-paced combat system will test your skills as you face off against a variety of enemies.
The game is filled with intricate puzzles that will test your problem-solving skills. From deciphering ancient codes to manipulating objects in the environment, every puzzle in CrossCode is designed to make you think outside the box.
As you progress through the game, you’ll also have the opportunity to forge relationships with other players. CrossCode features a robust multiplayer component where you can team up with friends or join forces with other players to take on challenging quests and defeat powerful bosses. The game’s community is vibrant and welcoming, making it easy to find new friends and allies.
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of CrossCode is the mystery surrounding Lea’s lost memories. As you explore the virtual world of CrossWorlds, you’ll uncover clues and piece together fragments of Lea’s past. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the truth behind Lea’s amnesia.
- Release Date: September 20, 2018
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One
- Developer: Radical Fish Games
- Publisher: Deck13, WhisperGames
- Genre: Action RPG
Stick it to the Man!
In Stick it to the Man!, you play as Ray, a regular guy who suddenly finds a giant pink spaghetti arm sticking out of his head. This quirky adventure game will have you exploring a vibrant paper craft world, solving puzzles, and interacting with a cast of hilarious and eccentric characters.
Every corner of the game is filled with intricate details, from the meticulously designed characters to the vibrant and colorful environments. The attention to detail is truly remarkable, making every moment of gameplay a visual feast for the eyes.
The game also boasts a captivating storyline that will keep you hooked from start to finish. As Ray, you’ll unravel the mystery behind the giant pink spaghetti arm and discover the secrets of the paper craft world. Along the way, you’ll encounter a wide range of characters, each with their own unique personality and quirks.
The game seamlessly combines platforming elements with point-and-click puzzles, creating a truly unique and engaging experience.
The game also encourages exploration, rewarding players who take the time to thoroughly explore each level. Hidden collectibles and secret areas are scattered throughout the game, waiting to be discovered. These hidden gems not only add replay value but also provide additional insight into the rich lore of the paper craft world.
Stick it to the Man! is a game that truly stands out from the crowd. Its unique blend of platforming, point-and-click gameplay, and captivating storytelling make it a must-play for fans of EarthBound and adventure games in general.
- Release Date: August 13, 2013
- Platforms: PC, PS4, PS3, PS Vita, Switch, Wii U, Xbox One
- Developer: Zoink
- Publisher: Ripstone
- Genre: Adventure, Platformer
Heartbound
Heartbound is a heartfelt, story-driven game that tells the tale of a young boy named Lore and his loyal canine companion, Baron. Lore, a curious and imaginative child, embarks on a remarkable adventure that takes him through a surreal and emotionally charged world.
As you guide Lore and Baron on their journey, you’ll uncover the truth behind Lore’s troubled past. The game delves deep into themes of love, loss, and personal growth, exploring the complexities of human emotions in a way that resonates with players on a profound level.
One of the most captivating aspects of Heartbound is its beautiful pixel art style. Every scene is meticulously crafted, with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the game world to life. From the lush forests to the desolate wastelands, each environment is a visual feast for the eyes, immersing players in a stunningly realized universe.
Heartbound is a game that will tug at your heartstrings in all the right ways. It explores the depths of human emotions, taking players on an emotional rollercoaster that is both poignant and thought-provoking.
- Release Date: December 25, 2018 (Early Access)
- Platforms: PC
- Developer & Publisher: Pirate Software
- Genre: RPG, Adventure
Hylics
Prepare to enter a world of psychedelic surrealism with Hylics. This unconventional RPG features a unique claymation art style that sets it apart from any other game on this list.
As you explore this strange and abstract world, you’ll engage in turn-based battles against bizarre and surreal creatures. With its mind-bending visuals and unconventional gameplay mechanics, Hylics is an experience like no other.
- Release Date: October 2, 2015
- Platforms: PC
- Developer & Publisher: Mason Lindroth
- Genre: RPG
Knights of Pen & Paper
If you’re a fan of EarthBound’s humorous take on classic RPG tropes, then Knights of Pen & Paper is sure to tickle your funny bone.
In this meta RPG, you assume the role of both the players and the game master as you embark on a tabletop adventure. With its witty writing, charming pixel art style, and addictive gameplay, Knights of Pen & Paper is a game that will keep you coming back for more.
- Release Date: October 2012
- Platforms: PC, Mobile, PS4, Xbox One, Switch
- Developer: Behold Studios
- Publisher: Paradox Interactive
- Genre: RPG
Chulip
In Chulip, you play as a young boy who must win the hearts of the inhabitants of a strange and whimsical town.
This unique adventure game combines elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and romance as you navigate the town and interact with its offbeat characters. With its quirky visuals and charming gameplay, Chulip is a hidden gem that EarthBound fans won’t want to miss.
- Release Date: October 3, 2002
- Platforms: PS2
- Developer: Punchline
- Publisher: Natsume, Marvelous Entertainment
- Genre: Adventure
Looming
If you’re in a contemplative mood, then Looming is the game for you. This atmospheric puzzle game invites you to explore a hauntingly beautiful world filled with enigmatic structures and surreal landscapes. With its minimalistic visuals, meditative soundtrack, and thought-provoking puzzles, Looming is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
- Release Date: 2010
- Platforms: Browser
- Developer: Gregory Weir
- Genre: Adventure
Costume Quest
Halloween may be over, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the sweet nostalgia of the season with Costume Quest. In this charming RPG, you’ll assume the role of a group of kids who must save their sibling by battling monsters in their quest for candy. With its delightful art style, humorous writing, and addictive gameplay, Costume Quest is a game that’s perfect for players of all ages.
- Release Date: October 19, 2010
- Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
- Developer: Double Fine Productions
- Publisher: THQ, Double Fine Productions
- Genre: RPG
YIIK: A Postmodern RPG
Last but certainly not least, we have YIIK: A Postmodern RPG. This unique indie game draws inspiration from EarthBound’s quirky humor and pop culture references, while also exploring deeper themes such as existentialism and the search for meaning in a digital age. With its stylish visuals, engaging storyline, and turn-based battles, YIIK: A Postmodern RPG is a game that will challenge your perceptions and leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
- Release Date: January 17, 2019
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Switch
- Developer: Ackk Studios
- Publisher: Ysbryd Games
- Genre: RPG
Conclusion
So, whether you’re a die-hard EarthBound fan or simply looking for a new RPG to sink your teeth into, these 20 games are sure to scratch that itch. From surreal adventures to heartwarming stories, each of these titles captures the essence of EarthBound in its own unique way. So, grab your controller, settle in with a hot beverage, and prepare to embark on a journey like no other!