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EarthBound

199493/100
Role-playing (RPG)Turn-based strategy (TBS)Adventure

Fantasy · Sci-Fi · Time Manipulation · Turn-Based

EarthBound's charm stems from its subversion of RPG tropes, placing players in a quirky, modern-day setting where psychic powers and bizarre enemies abound. The game's turn-based combat, with its unique "rolling HP" system, adds a layer of strategic depth, while the offbeat dialogue and surreal environments create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. It's a game that resonates for its willingness to be weird and its ability to blend humor with genuine emotional moments.

About EarthBound

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The story begins when Ness is awakened by a meteor that has plummeted to the earth near his home, whereupon he proceeds to investigate the crash site. When Ness gets to the crash site he discovers a police roadblock and Pokey Minch, his friend and neighbor, who tells him to go home. Later, Ness is woken up again by Pokey knocking at his door, demanding help to find his brother Picky. They find him near the meteor sleeping behind a tree and wake him up. Then the three encounter an insect from the meteor named Buzz Buzz who informs Ness that he is from the future where the "universal cosmic destroyer", Giygas, dominates the planet. Buzz Buzz senses great potential in Ness and instructs him to embark on a journey to seek out and record the melodies of eight "sanctuaries," unite his own powers with the Earth's and gain the strength required to confront Giygas.

Top 3 Alternatives to EarthBound

1
Rating
Critic & community
92
Match
Recommendation strength
92%

Chrono Trigger

1995 · Role-playing (RPG)

Like EarthBound, this is a quintessential JRPG that blends heartfelt storytelling with innovative turn-based combat and a memorable cast, all wrapped in a vibrant, imaginative world.

Why recommended

  • Features a compelling narrative that spans across different time periods, similar to EarthBound's journey through various quirky settings and its underlying themes of time and destiny.
  • Criteria - Strong Story: The game is renowned for its intricate plot, character development, and multiple endings, driven by clear narrative beats and character interactions.
  • The active time battle system adds a dynamic layer to turn-based combat, requiring strategic thought and character synergy, akin to EarthBound's unique combat mechanics.
2
Rating
Critic & community
91
Match
Recommendation strength
85%

This game offers a charming blend of humor, unique turn-based combat, and a quest-driven narrative, echoing EarthBound's whimsical tone and its journey through a world full of eccentric characters.

Why recommended

  • Presents a distinct visual style and a comedic, often self-aware narrative that captures the lighthearted yet meaningful tone found in EarthBound.
  • Criteria - Strong Story: Features a well-developed plot with memorable characters, witty dialogue, and clear narrative progression through chapters.
  • Its turn-based combat system incorporates action commands and audience interaction, providing a fresh and engaging take on the traditional RPG battle, much like EarthBound's rolling HP meter.
3
Rating
Critic & community
92
Match
Recommendation strength
80%

Step into a world where your choices truly matter, offering a unique blend of humor, emotional storytelling, and a combat system that challenges traditional RPG norms, much like EarthBound's innovative spirit.

Why recommended

  • Features a deeply emotional and humorous narrative with unforgettable characters, exploring themes of friendship, morality, and the consequences of actions, reminiscent of EarthBound's thematic depth.
  • Criteria - Strong Story: The narrative is central to the experience, with branching paths and multiple endings heavily influenced by player choices and dialogue.
  • Offers a unique 'bullet hell' inspired turn-based combat system where players can choose to fight or spare enemies, providing a fresh and engaging take on RPG mechanics.

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