Earthworm Jim 2

Earthworm Jim 2 (USA)
Earthworm Jim 2 (USA)

Earthworm Jim 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the original cult classic, brings back the zany adventures of our hero, the earthworm-turned-superhero, in an all-new, side-scrolling platforming extravaganza. Developed by Shiny Entertainment and released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Earthworm Jim 2 retains the wacky humor, imaginative level design, and challenging gameplay that made its predecessor a hit. Let's dive into this intergalactic journey and see if Earthworm Jim 2 lives up to its predecessor's legacy.

Year: 1995
Manufacturer: Playmates
Genre: Platform
Rating: Other - NR (Not Rated)

Graphics:
Visually, Earthworm Jim 2 is a treat. The game features vibrant and colorful environments that burst with life. The attention to detail in the character designs is remarkable, with Jim himself sporting smooth animations and expressive movements. The game's art style combines the bizarre with the grotesque, resulting in a unique and memorable aesthetic that perfectly complements the game's humor and surreal tone. While the SNES hardware limitations prevent it from matching the graphical fidelity of later consoles, Earthworm Jim 2 still impresses with its creative and visually captivating world.

Gameplay:
Earthworm Jim 2 is a side-scrolling platformer with a twist. Controlling the titular hero, players must navigate through a variety of levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and puzzles. Jim's abilities, like his trusty blaster and his worm-like abilities, add depth to the gameplay mechanics. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing for precise movement and action. The level design is incredibly imaginative, taking players through diverse locations such as deep space, underwater worlds, and even Jim's own brain.

The game is known for its mix of traditional platforming segments and unique, quirky stages that deviate from the norm. These include riding a hamster through a maze, piloting a rocket, and even becoming an actual blind cave salamander. Earthworm Jim 2 constantly surprises players with its unpredictability, ensuring that boredom never sets in. The difficulty can be challenging, but it remains fair and rewards persistence and exploration.

Story and Humor:
One of the standout aspects of Earthworm Jim 2 is its offbeat and irreverent humor. The game is packed with clever pop culture references, witty dialogue, and absurd scenarios that will keep players chuckling throughout their playthrough. The story follows Jim as he embarks on a quest to rescue Princess What's-Her-Name from the clutches of the evil Psy-Crow. The plot, while simple, serves as a backdrop for the game's humorous moments and quirky characters, such as the lovable Peter Puppy and the enigmatic Evil the Cat.  Just listen to this start screen music!

Sound and Music:
The audio design in Earthworm Jim 2 adds another layer of charm to the overall experience. The soundtrack is catchy, with each level having its own distinct tune that fits the atmosphere perfectly. The sound effects are punchy and satisfying, especially when using Jim's blaster or interacting with the game's eccentric cast of characters. The voice acting is top-notch, delivering lines with comedic timing that enhances the game's humor.

Earthworm Jim 2 (USA)

Conclusion:
Earthworm Jim 2 successfully builds upon the foundations of its predecessor, delivering a sequel that is as entertaining and zany as the original. With its memorable visuals, challenging gameplay, and hilarious humor, Earthworm Jim 2 is a must-play for fans of the platforming genre and those seeking a lighthearted gaming experience. Despite the limitations of the SNES hardware, this game manages to captivate players with its creativity and unique charm. Strap on your superhero suit, grab your blaster, and get ready for a wild and hilarious adventure with Earthworm Jim

Explore in-depth reviews and analyses of classic Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) games, including gameplay mechanics, graphics, sound, and overall nostalgic experience.