Earthworm Jim 2: Wacky, Wild, and Wonderfully Weird

Following the cult success of the original, Earthworm Jim 2 arrived in 1995 with even more zany humor, inventive level design, and frantic platforming action. Developed by Shiny Entertainment and published by Playmates Interactive, this sequel took everything players loved about the first game—and cranked it up to eleven.

Earthworm Jim 2 continued the adventures of the unlikely hero: a humble earthworm strapped into a powerful robotic suit, battling bizarre enemies in a surreal, cartoonish universe. With its distinctive animation style, quirky characters, and offbeat sense of humor, the game captured the imagination of gamers who were craving something fresh and funny.

Gameplay: More Madness, More Variety

The gameplay in Earthworm Jim 2 expanded on its predecessor’s solid platforming mechanics by introducing a wide variety of level styles and challenges. From traditional side-scrolling action stages to top-down shooting levels and even vehicle-based sequences, the game constantly kept players on their toes.

Players used Jim’s blaster and signature whip-like head to dispatch enemies, combined with precise jumping and creative use of the environment. Levels featured hidden secrets, alternate paths, and humorous Easter eggs that rewarded exploration and experimentation.

Visuals and Audio: Cartoon Brilliance

Earthworm Jim 2 showcased hand-drawn animation that rivaled Saturday morning cartoons in fluidity and expressiveness. The game’s art style was bright, colorful, and packed with personality—from Jim’s exaggerated expressions to the bizarre designs of villains and allies alike.

The soundtrack, composed by Tommy Tallarico, complemented the game’s offbeat tone with catchy, energetic tunes that matched the fast-paced action and wacky scenarios. Sound effects were equally memorable, enhancing the comedic timing of the gameplay.

Humor and Story

Continuing the story from the first game, Jim faced new threats like Psy-Crow, Queen Slug-for-a-Butt, and evil versions of himself. The narrative was lighthearted and packed with absurd jokes, often breaking the fourth wall with tongue-in-cheek commentary.

Cutscenes and in-game dialogue added to the charm, creating a memorable experience that felt more like playing through a cartoon episode than a traditional game.

Legacy

Earthworm Jim 2 is widely regarded as one of the best platformers of the 16-bit era, praised for its creativity, humor, and technical excellence. It reinforced Earthworm Jim as an iconic character and influenced many subsequent games with its blend of comedy and gameplay innovation.

Even decades later, fans return to Jim’s bizarre world for a dose of wacky fun and classic platforming challenge.

Price: £7

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