Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass: EarthBound-Inspired Indie RPG Set for Nintendo Switch Release

Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass, a standout among EarthBound-inspired RPGs, is making its long-awaited debut on consoles, including the Nintendo Switch.

Developed by Kasey Ozymy of Starseed Games—a solo developer from Texas with a deep appreciation for Japanese-style role-playing games—this indie title initially launched on Steam and itch.io in August 2018.

Now, in partnership with publisher Electric Airship, plans are in motion to bring the turn-based RPG to modern gaming platforms, a move that will introduce the game to a much wider audience through popular services such as the Nintendo eShop. Despite a modest initial reception—with fewer than 500 Steam reviews and a limited spotlight in media outlets—Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass has steadily built a reputation among RPG enthusiasts for its depth, creativity, and heartfelt storytelling.

Influences from genre-defining classics are evident throughout: while its quirky humor and American suburbia setting clearly pay homage to Nintendo’s EarthBound, the game also draws inspiration from series like Breath of Fire and Final Fantasy V, as well as cult indie horror game Yume Nikki. Starseed Games’ debut title offers over 40 hours of gameplay, all set within the dream world of eight-year-old protagonist Jimmy.

The title features classic first-person, turn-based combat reminiscent of Dragon Quest, with a unique twist: players can transform into enemies they’ve defeated—unless those enemies are under the control of the mysterious Pulsating Mass, the game’s main antagonist.

The game challenges players with nightmarish dungeons, a variety of sidequests, and an emotionally resonant story at its core. Speaking about the upcoming port, Electric Airship confirmed in a recent social media post that work is underway to adapt Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass for all consoles.

While a specific release date has not yet been announced, this collaboration marks an important milestone for the indie RPG, bringing it to major platforms like the Nintendo Switch where its artistry and narrative are expected to reach a significantly larger audience. The game has already garnered praise from niche reviewers at Gaming Trend, Cubed3, and RPGFan, as well as from YouTuber Nitro Rad, who featured the game in a comprehensive review.

The continued support and enthusiasm from the indie gaming community further underscore the enduring appeal of EarthBound-inspired RPGs, especially those that innovate within the genre. For those eager to follow updates, Electric Airship encourages fans to sign up on their website for the latest news on Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass’s console release and other indie RPG projects.

As the game prepares to join the ranks of beloved RPG titles available on Nintendo Switch, its journey from a cult classic to a wider audience stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of passion-driven game development.

Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass Starseed Games Electric Airship EarthBound Nintendo Switch consoles Nintendo Switch