Ness
The quiet protagonist from Onett who gains psychic powers and sets out to oppose Giygas.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Control Pad | Move the party through the field. |
|---|---|
A | Talk to people and examine objects. |
B | Cancel a selection. |
Control notes
Some menu functions use additional SNES buttons; their exact assignment can vary by control configuration.
Battle commands are selected from the on-screen menus.
How it plays
How does EarthBound play?
Players explore towns, roads, caves, factories, and other areas from a top-down perspective. Ness and his companions talk to residents, inspect objects, solve environmental problems, collect items, and fight enemies that appear on the field.
Battles are turn-based and include physical attacks, PSI abilities, items, guarding, and other commands. Characters gain experience and improve their statistics after victories. The journey is divided into major regions and story objectives, with new party members, equipment, abilities, and access to later areas providing progression.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play EarthBound?
Keep the party equipped when reaching a new town, and use the Escargo Express to store surplus items. Healing items are useful, but PSI recovery and the hospital system can reduce inventory pressure.
In battle, exploit enemy weaknesses with PSI, use Jeff's tools against mechanical or difficult targets, and watch the rolling HP meter. Recover before major boss encounters and keep a few status-curing items available.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Paula
A powerful psychic girl from Twoson who joins Ness and uses offensive and supportive PSI.
Jeff
A mechanically gifted student from Winters who uses inventive tools instead of PSI.
Poo
The prince of Dalaam, a disciplined martial artist who learns distinctive PSI techniques.
Giygas
The alien antagonist whose expanding power threatens Earth and the surrounding reality.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Check objects and speak with townspeople; many useful items and clues are easy to miss.
- 2
Use the ATM and Escargo Express regularly to manage money and inventory.
- 3
Save at a telephone before exploring dangerous new areas.
Community discussion
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