The Nintendo SNES is one of the most iconic consoles of all time, with a library of games that still holds up today. One game that stands out among its peers is Earthworm Jim, a side-scrolling action-platformer developed by Shiny Entertainment and published by Interplay Productions. Released in 1994, Earth Worm Jim was initially intended for the Sega Genesis but was later ported to the SNES, where it became an instant hit.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Earthworm Jim on the SNES, including its gameplay, graphics, and sound track, as well as the age rating that is available for the game in Europe.

Gameplay

Earth Worm Jim follows the adventures of the titular character, Earthworm Jim, a worm from the planet Earth who gets caught up in an intergalactic adventure to stop the evil King Cockroach from destroying the universe. The gameplay is typical of 2D platformers: players control Jim as he navigates through various levels, collecting power-ups and fighting enemies along the way.

One of the standout features of Earth Worm Jim is its focus on humor and parody. The game's story is full of pop culture references, from Alien to Rocky IV, and the game's characters are just as memorable. From the boss battles with the likes of Gorgon and Psy-Crow to the hilarious cutscenes featuring Jim's nemesis, Queen Slime, the game is full of laughs.

Gameplay-wise, Earth Worm Jim builds upon the classic platformer formula, but adds a few twists of its own. The game introduces power-ups that allow players to fly, turn invisible, or shoot energy beams from their mouth. These power-ups are crucial in navigating the game's many challenges, and are often used creatively by players.

Graphics

At the time of its release, Earth Worm Jim was praised for its vibrant colors and detailed graphics. The SNES hardware allowed for impressive visuals, with intricate backgrounds, chunky characters, and full-motion video cutscenes.

The game's use of pre-rendered 3D models was a notable feature at the time. The character sprites were hand-drawn, giving them a unique look that has become synonymous with the game. While some may find the graphics dated by today's standards, they hold up surprisingly well, and are still a treat for players who grew up with the game.

Soundtrack

The sound track of Earth Worm Jim is just as memorable as its visuals. Composed by Joe Bannister and Michael Land, it perfectly complements the game's lighthearted tone, with catchy melodies and zany sound effects that add to the game's humor.

One of the standout features of the soundtrack is its use of parody elements. The music is full of references to classic rock ballads, such as Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" or AC/DC's "Highway to Hell," which adds an extra layer of humor and personality to the game.

Age Rating

In Europe, Earth Worm Jim was originally rated PEGI 7+ by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system. This means that players under the age of 7 should be left alone while playing the game, with adult supervision recommended for children aged 7 and above.

This rating is based on the game's content, including mild violence, suggestive humor, and brief innuendos. While these elements are not excessively graphic or explicit, they may still be considered mature by some players.

However, it's worth noting that Earth Worm Jim has undergone several re-releases over the years, which have resulted in slightly different age ratings. For example, the game was initially released on the SNES as a "Teen" rating by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), but this has since been updated to a more general "T" for Teen rating.

In summary, Earth Worm Jim is a classic platformer that holds up remarkably well today, thanks in large part to its humor, engaging gameplay, and catchy soundtrack. While it may not be suitable for all ages due to some mild violence and suggestive humor, it remains an iconic game of the SNES era that continues to entertain players of all ages.

Technical Details

Here are a few technical details about Earth Worm Jim on the SNES:

• Developer: Shiny Entertainment
• Publisher: Interplay Productions
• Release Date: 1994 (NA), 1995 (EU)
• Genre: Action-Platformer
• Platform: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
• Rating: PEGI 7+, ESRB T for Teen

Legacy

Earth Worm Jim has left a lasting legacy on the gaming world, thanks in large part to its irreverent humor and engaging gameplay. The game's success spawned a franchise that includes multiple sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise, cementing its place as one of the most beloved games of all time.

The game's influence can also be seen in other platformers of the era, such as Conker's Bad Fur Day and Super Mario 64, which owe a debt to Earth Worm Jim's innovative gameplay mechanics and humor.

In recent years, Earth Worm Jim has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its inclusion on various "Best Games of All Time" lists. The game's timeless charm and humor have ensured that it remains a beloved classic among gamers of all ages.

Conclusion

Earth Worm Jim is a true SNES classic that continues to entertain players today. With its engaging gameplay, catchy soundtrack, and irreverent humor, it's no wonder why the game has remained such an iconic part of gaming history. While some may find its age rating questionable, it remains a game that is suitable for players of all ages who can appreciate its lighthearted tone and classic platformer gameplay.

If you're looking for a fun and challenging platformer that will transport you back to the golden age of gaming, then Earth Worm Jim is an absolute must-play. With its enduring legacy and timeless charm, it's sure to remain a beloved classic for years to come.