Earthworm Jim: Special Edition

About

Earthworm Jim: Special Edition is a 1995 platform shooter where you control a pudgy earthworm in a mismatched power suit. Developed by Shiny Entertainment, the game blends side-scrolling action with over-the-top humor as Jim dodges enemies, solves puzzles, and rescues a disinterested princess. Combat involves zany weapons and acrobatics, while the cartoonish visuals and absurd dialogue keep the tone light. The story follows Jim’s chaotic mission to protect Princess What’s-Her-Name, only for her to be squashed by a cow he accidentally launches. This Sega CD version adds a new level called Big Bruty, expanded animations, and a remixed audio track. Alternate endings deliver absurd narration based on difficulty settings, a quirky touch that stuck with fans. Originally released in March 1995, it later moved to Windows 95. Despite its age, the game’s quirky charm and fluid mechanics earned it a cult following. Its influence on 90s platformers remains notable, with critics praising its creativity and replayability.

Storyline

Jim is a normal earthworm, until a special "super suit" falls from the sky and allows him to operate much like a human, with his "worm-part" acting as a head and the suit acting as arms, body, and legs. Jim's task is two-fold, he must evade the game's many antagonists, who are after him because they want the suit back, and also rescue and protect Princess What's-Her-Name from them. The game plays out with Jim eluding and defeating all enemies, and saving Princess What's-Her-Name. However, not only does she not return Jim's affection, but she is also crushed by the flying cow that was launched at the beginning of the game by Jim himself.