Genesis

Earthworm Jim

Both versions, the Genesis and Super Nintendo, are spectacular, but the Genesis version has an additional level (Intestine). Either way, if you're only planning to get one game this holiday season, make it Earthworm Jim.

As good as Global Gladiators, Cool Spot, and Aladdin were, David Perry and his crew reached even higher platform gaming heights with Earthworm Jim. No longer constrained by a license, they successfully blended the charm and beauty of these three games with the radical level design and techniques of Rare's extraordinary Battletoads. Their creation lived its own life, undisturbed by the imposing shadows of its predecessors.

Shiny Entertainment's patented 'Animotion' process paved the way for the cartridge's amazing graphics, while the excellent graphics, while the excellent music and dynamic sound effects fit right in with the game's campy feel.

So, yeah, Earthworm Jim is another in the endless stream of platform games, but it has what so many others lack: stunning graphics, incredible music, addictive gameplay and a great sense of humor. Hugely recommended. Believe the hype!

What an unlikely hero to make such a big hit. This little worm is larger than life (sort of like Jim Carrey). Just the animations of the character alone are incredible enough for anyone to be drawn to it like a moth to a flame. But it doesn't stop there, the graphics and sounds complement the cool character. There are big levels with different types of scenes to keep you entertained. Simply put - this game is smokin'!

I find this cart to be both frustrating and a blast to play. A postscript, folks: this game spawned a sequel aptly named Earthworm Jim 2, Not to mention a cartoon series on Kid’s WB. Where is it now? There was also a line of some pretty cool looking action figures that are collector’s items now!

But you might be better off looking for the sequel to show up instead of diving into Earthworm Jim's underground world with this first release. Earthworm Jim 2 is a more solid experience on the gameplay side of things, while retaining the positive visual aspects of this original -- this first Earthworm Jim is pretty and likely to stir up nostalgia for many, but just doesn't handle well enough to really be a fun game to play. Invest your 800 Wii Points with caution, because your memories of Earthworm Jim as a character and cartoon hero might be making you think this first game adventure was better than it is.

The bosses are interesting but some are far too difficult. The very first boss (which is really a sub-boss) is outrageously hard. But Earthworm Jim is more than platform jumping and shooting. In fact, the variety of challenges in this game are remarkable. In one stage you must guide an oblivious pup to safety, and another puts you in a bungee-jumping contest with a huge ball of snot. There are even 3D stages where you race through a space tube while avoiding asteroids. But where's the password feature? Having to start each game from the first stage is a travesty! The audio is a collection of eclectic tunes that perfectly match the game's unconventional tone, and the sound effects are top notch. Earthworm Jim is certainly one of a kind, though casual gamers may find it somewhat frustrating.