Game Review: ToeJam & Earl

 

Game: ToeJam & Earl
Console: Sega Mega Drive
Developer: ToeJam & Earl Productions
Release Date: 12th March 1992

Usually games that feature unconventional concepts or gameplay receive polarising reviews, either wowing critics with their unique new gameplay ideas or falling flat. ToeJam & Earl took many elements from existing games, but revitalised them with a new concept, a 90s feel, funky music, and co-op gameplay. Playing as the titular duo of alien rappers, players aim to find all 10 pieces of their spaceship across 25 levels in order to return home.

The 2D levels featured in the game can be either randomly generated or played as fixed levels, though the preset versions can be a little more challenging. As players explore the landscape, they'll encounter presents which contain items which help or hinder ToeJam and Earl's progress. There are powerups which give health, a speed boost, and even the ability to fire weapons at enemies, but there are also food based powerups which take away an amount of health if eaten.

The main objective of each level is to find any ship pieces (a warning will appear when on a level where one is hidden), and then the elevator to take players to the next level. As players explore levels, each visited area of the map becomes visible on the map screen. This can help when players need to guide eachother to the elevator, or when backtracking through levels due to falling off a higher level onto the one below.

Gameplay is generally relaxed, with enemies occasionally appearing to get in the way of player progress. While the exploration setup and style of humour won't appeal to everyone, ToeJam & Earl presents a coherant gaming experience which is timeless and fun. While the game can be played in single player, it's definitely best to grab a friend and play the game as a team.

Graphically the game features a simplistic almost cartoon style, which helps contribute towards to overall 90s feel with brightly coloured background textures and items. Character designs are outlandish and memorable, with a good amount of humour thrown into the mix (player ranks throughout the game include wiener, poindexter, peanut and rapmaster). Musically the game combines the Mega Drive soundchip with funky basslines and tunes for a memorable and fitting accompaniment.

Overall ToeJam & Earl is a great multiplayer exploration game whose overall style and presentation contributes a lot toward its charm and long lasting popularity. There's something satisfying about getting a friend over, and exploring a randomly generated map to find 10 pieces of a spaceship so that 2 aliens can get home.

Rating: 82/100
Grade: B