The Nintendo SNES EarthBound (USA) [Hack by Mr. Tenda v0.908] (~Mr. Saturn in Hat Quest) is a highly acclaimed and beloved game among retro gaming enthusiasts. Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, EarthBound has gained a cult following over the years due to its unique blend of quirky characters, engaging storyline, and addictive gameplay.

In this article, we will delve into the world of EarthBound, exploring its history, gameplay mechanics, and features that make it stand out from other games in the genre. We will also discuss the hack version created by Mr. Tenda, which adds a new layer of depth to the game. Finally, we will examine the age rating available for this game and provide some context on why it's suitable (or not) for players of all ages.

History of EarthBound

EarthBound was initially released in Japan as "Mother 2" in 1994, followed by a release in North America and Europe under the title EarthBound in 1995. The game was developed by Ape Inc. (later renamed HAL Laboratory), with assistance from Intelligent Systems, who were also responsible for creating the Mother series.

The game's story follows Ness, a young boy with psychic abilities, as he travels across the world to save it from an alien invasion led by Giygas. Along the way, players encounter a variety of colorful characters, each with their own unique personalities and quirks.

Gameplay Mechanics

EarthBound is an RPG (Role-Playing Game) that combines elements of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. Players control Ness as he navigates through various environments, battling enemies, collecting items, and interacting with non-playable characters (NPCs).

One of the standout features of EarthBound is its unique battle system, which utilizes a turn-based approach with a twist. Players can choose from three different types of abilities: magic spells, physical attacks, and special moves that use health points to determine their effectiveness.

In addition to combat, players must also manage Ness's health, energy, and items. Health points are replenished by eating food items or consuming special potions, while energy is restored through various means such as rest or using specific abilities. Items can be collected throughout the game world or purchased from vendors.

Features

EarthBound boasts a range of features that contribute to its enduring popularity. Some notable aspects include:

• Quirky Characters: The game's cast of characters is both lovable and eccentric, with each one possessing their own distinct personality.
• Satire and Social Commentary: EarthBound pokes fun at various social issues, such as racism, sexism, and consumerism, often through subtle yet effective satire.
• Memorable Music: The game's soundtrack, composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, is both catchy and memorable, with many of the themes still widely recognized today.

Hack Version: Mr. Tenda's v0.908

In 2007, a fan named Mr. Tenda released his own hack version of EarthBound, titled "Mr. Saturn in Hat Quest" (v0.908). This mod adds new content, gameplay mechanics, and features to the original game.

The hack includes:

• New Characters: Several new playable characters have been added, each with their own unique abilities and backstories.
• New Areas: Additional areas to explore, including underground dungeons and secret levels.
• Gameplay Mechanics Overhaul: New gameplay mechanics, such as improved battle systems and enhanced item management.

Age Rating

The age rating for EarthBound (USA) [Hack by Mr. Tenda v0.908] varies depending on the region and platform. In the United States, the game is rated "T" for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it may contain mild violence, cartoonish humor, and suggestive themes.

In Europe, the game is rated PEGI 7+, which means it's suitable for players aged seven and above. The UK's PGLS rating system assigns a rating of PG, indicating that the game is suitable for players of all ages.

Conclusion

EarthBound (USA) [Hack by Mr. Tenda v0.908] is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of quirky characters, engaging storyline, and addictive gameplay. The hack version created by Mr. Tenda adds a new layer of depth to the game, making it an excellent choice for fans of retro gaming.

While some content may not be suitable for younger players, EarthBound is generally considered a family-friendly game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages.