Jim’s standard Plasma Blaster was fun to shoot- not least for its hero’s hilariously dramatic
stances while aiming – but he is, in fact, his
own best weapon. His ability to stretch his
body taut gave him the ability to swing from
hooks, but it was often more effectively used
to lash out at enemies above.
CLASSIC WEAPON
S
illy, surreal and altogether
groovy, Earthworm Jim set
out to prove that Japan didn’t
necessarily hold all the cards
when it came to the best action-
platformers on console. Though some
had it pegged as a case of style over
substance thanks to its outstanding,
characterful hand-drawn animation,
this was a ceaselessly creative
adventure, blending running and
jumping with unconventional gunplay
and levels crammed with one-off gags
and ideas. Folding in escort missions,
races and light puzzles, it never stopped
trying to entertain. Its irresistible sense
of fun helped it find a large audience –
enough to spawn sequels, an animated
series and a merchandising line.Developer Shiny Entertainment
Publisher Virgin Interactive
Genre Platform
Released 1994