Getting slimed by a cow, navigating intestinal tracts as a salamander, or piloting a pocket rocket to escort a bomb – if that sounds like your kind of Tuesday, you probably spent some quality time with Earthworm Jim 2. And for many of us, that bizarre, hilarious, and challenging adventure first unfolded on the mighty Sega Genesis.
While Earthworm Jim's sequel eventually landed on numerous platforms, there's a special kind of nostalgia tied to experiencing its glorious weirdness on Sega's 16-bit powerhouse. It was the original target platform, and it felt like Shiny Entertainment pushed the console to its limits to bring Jim's sophomore outing to life.
Why the Genesis Version Still Hits Different
The Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive, depending on where you grew up) was known for its speedy processor and punchy sound chip. Earthworm Jim 2 leveraged both. The action felt fast and fluid, and while the SNES version might have had slightly more vibrant colors or different background art in places, the Genesis had that distinct, gritty look and a soundtrack that often felt right at home with the console's rock and roll attitude.
Playing Earthworm Jim 2 Sega Genesis specifically means experiencing the game as it was initially conceived before later ports added features or made changes. It's the raw, unadulterated sequel experience that captivated players in 1995.
Gameplay: Still Wacky, But More So
Building on the solid foundation of the first game's run-and-gun platforming, Earthworm Jim 2 cranked the dial up to eleven on variety. Yes, you still whip enemies, shoot plasma, and swing from hooks, but the levels constantly throw new mechanics and scenarios at you.
- Snott: Jim's mucusy pal isn't just for show! You'll use Snott to swing across gaps or deploy him as a snot-parachute for controlled descents. It added a fun, gooey layer to the platforming.
- New Weapons: Beyond the standard plasma, you got bizarre tools like the auto-targeting Three Finger Gun or the screen-clearing Barn Blaster.
- Health Boosts: Finding a "Chip Butty" temporarily doubled your health, a crucial edge in tougher sections.
This sequel wasn't content to just be more of the same. It consistently broke its own rules, keeping you guessing what absurdity would come next.
Levels That Mess With Your Head
Forget straightforward platforming. Earthworm Jim 2 on Genesis delighted in throwing you into completely different gameplay styles, often within the same level or between stages.
- Villi People: A notorious level where you navigate internal organs, dodging exploding sheep and environmental hazards, only to suddenly be thrust into a bizarre game show quiz.
- Inflated Head: Control a balloon-headed Jim floating upwards, trying to avoid sharp objects and Evil the Cat's attacks. One pop and you plummet!
- Lorenzo's Soil: A frantic digging section against the clock, where you have to burrow through dirt, avoiding enemies and using falling debris to your advantage.
- Puppy Love: A bizarre segment where you catch falling puppies while simultaneously trying to guide bombs to a specific spot to damage Psy-Crow.
These segments, while sometimes frustrating, were part of the game's charm and originality. They ensured Earthworm Jim 2 never felt repetitive.
Genesis vs. The World (Briefly)
While the Genesis version is fantastic, it's worth noting the game did appear elsewhere. The SNES port was very similar, often debated as being slightly better or worse depending on preference (graphics vs. sound vs. specific quirks). Later ports like the Saturn and PlayStation versions added enhanced CD audio and slightly improved visuals but didn't fundamentally change the core experience and sometimes had their own technical hiccups. The DOS version offered higher resolution and CD music but missed a level. The less said about the GBA port, the better.
But for many, the Earthworm Jim 2 Sega Genesis version holds a special place. It was the genesis (pun intended) of this particular adventure, perfectly capturing the game's manic energy within the confines of 16-bit hardware.
Reliving the Groovy: Where to Play Today
Want to jump back into the weirdness? Finding an original Sega Genesis console and cartridge is always an option for the purists.
If you're looking for modern convenience:
- The Genesis version has seen re-releases on platforms like the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console (though that service is now defunct) and was included on the Sega Genesis Mini 2 console.
- The MS-DOS version, often bundled as "Earthworm Jim 1 & 2: The Whole Can 'O Worms," is available digitally on platforms like GOG.com and Steam, playable via DOSBox emulation. While not the exact Genesis code, it's a very accessible way to play the game on modern PCs.
- Preservation efforts by communities and sites like Archive.org document the game's history and different versions, offering insights into its development and legacy.
No matter how you play it, Earthworm Jim 2 remains a standout title from the 16-bit era, and the Sega Genesis version is a crucial part of its history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Earthworm Jim 2 on Sega Genesis different from the SNES version? A: Yes, there are subtle differences, primarily in background art, sound mixing, and some minor gameplay quirks (like weapon switching on SNES). They are very similar overall, but each has its unique feel.
Q: Where can I legally play the Earthworm Jim 2 Sega Genesis version now? A: The Genesis version was included on the Sega Genesis Mini 2. Digital re-releases of the Genesis version appeared on the Wii Virtual Console, but that service is closed. The DOS version is available on GOG/Steam, which is a different port but offers a similar experience.
Q: Is the Genesis version considered the best? A: This is subjective! Many players are fiercely loyal to either the Genesis or SNES version. The Genesis version is significant as it was the lead development platform.
Q: Does the Genesis version have the "Villi People" level? A: Yes, the infamous "Villi People" level is present in the original Sega Genesis release of Earthworm Jim 2, along with other unique stages like "Inflated Head" and "Lorenzo's Soil."
