Earthworm Jim
Earthworm Jim is a 1994 platformer developed by Shiny Entertainment, a wildly inventive side-scroller starring an ordinary earthworm transformed into a superhero by a powered space suit. Its absurd humor and cartoon energy, led by animator and designer Doug TenNapel, set it apart from other mascot platformers.
The game was celebrated for its fluid, expressive hand-drawn animation, bizarre enemies and unpredictable set pieces, such as a bungee-jumping boss duel and a level spent escorting a puppy safely to the ground. Sharp platforming, blaster combat and the ability to use Jim's own head as a whip were wrapped in a distinctive, irreverent style that felt genuinely fresh.
Earthworm Jim became a beloved icon of the 16-bit era, inspiring sequels and an animated television series. The original has appeared in numerous re-releases and collections, keeping its off-kilter charm within reach of modern players.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Earthworm Jim, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
Cuphead Indie
€ 19,99A challenging run-and-gun platformer with 1930s hand-drawn animation.
Cuphead runs on PC, Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Slime-san Indie
€ 14,99A fast, absurd precision platformer with the same rubbery cartoon slapstick.
Slime-san runs on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Rayman Legends
€ 19,99A vibrant, humorous platformer with a similar sense of whimsy.
Rayman Legends runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Earthworm Jim 1+2: The Whole Can 'O Worms
€ 9,99Both original games bundled and patched to run on modern Windows.
Earthworm Jim 1+2: The Whole Can 'O Worms runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Steam Deck.
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