Mother

About

Mother is a classic Japanese RPG where you play as Ninten, a kid who taps into psychic powers to battle rogue household items and figure out a sci-fi conspiracy. Developed by Ape in 1989, it blends turn-based combat with quirky enemy designs, from possessed lamps to alien-infested appliances. The story unfolds through simple but charming dialogue, guiding you from small-town mysteries to a cosmic showdown. Gameplay feels straightforward but methodical, focusing on team-based fighting and resource management. This Famicom original predates its Western counterpart, EarthBound Beginnings, and remains a cult favorite for its oddball charm. Its alien plot and talking animals set it apart from typical ’80s RPGs, though it’s often overshadowed by the more refined version it inspired. With a small but dedicated fanbase, Mother is a snapshot of Nintendo’s early experiments in accessible role-playing that later shaped the genre.

Storyline

Mother follows the young Ninten as he uses his great-grandfather's studies on psychic powers to fight hostile, formerly inanimate objects and other enemies. His adventure leads him to new friends and eventually uncovering an alien plot that must be stopped.