Hobonichi Celebrates EarthBound's 31st Anniversary with Special Shibuya Broadcast and Exhibit

Hobonichi Hosts Special Broadcast and Exhibit in Celebration of EarthBound's 31st Anniversary Japanese retailer and publisher Hobonichi is gearing up for a nostalgic celebration of one of Nintendo’s most beloved RPGs, Mother 2, known outside Japan as EarthBound.

To honor the game's 31st anniversary, Hobonichi has officially announced a special broadcast and the unveiling of a new exhibit, exciting longtime fans and series enthusiasts.

The commemorative event is scheduled for tonight, August 26th, 2025, at 8:15 p.m.

JST, and will be hosted live from the eighth floor of Shibuya PARCO, a prominent shopping and cultural complex in Tokyo. Mother 2, or EarthBound, stands as a cult classic within Nintendo's library.

Developed by Ape Inc.

and HAL Laboratory and released for the Super Famicom (SNES) in Japan in 1994 before reaching North America in 1995, the game is renowned for its quirky humor, innovative gameplay, and emotional storytelling.

Over the decades, the EarthBound series, overseen by its legendary creator and director Shigesato Itoi, has amassed a passionate following worldwide. During the special Shibuya PARCO event, Hobonichi will officially introduce the expanded "Mother no Katachi" exhibit.

The new exhibition is expected to build on existing displays, incorporating the original clay figurines created for Mother 2's marketing campaigns—an iconic part of the franchise’s visual legacy.

According to Hobonichi’s announcement, the exhibit aims to immerse visitors in the world of Mother, offering fans an up-close look at rare pieces of series history. A highlight of the event is the scheduled appearance by Shigesato Itoi himself.

Itoi's involvement is always a major draw for fans, as his unique vision has been central to the EarthBound series' enduring appeal.

While the broadcast has sparked speculation among some fans regarding potential announcements, it’s important to clarify that Nintendo is not directly participating in Hobonichi’s shop event.

As such, attendees and viewers should not anticipate news of a new EarthBound game or remake.

The focus remains firmly on celebrating the rich legacy of the original titles and providing a platform for fans and creators to reflect on the series’ history. EarthBound’s influence continues to resonate through multiple generations of Nintendo platforms, including digital releases on the Nintendo Switch Online service and persistent demand for Mother 3’s localization.

Anniversaries like this underline why the franchise remains a touchstone in the gaming community.

Hobonichi’s celebratory broadcast and the “Mother no Katachi” exhibit stand as a testament to EarthBound's lasting appeal and its unique place in Nintendo’s legacy. For fans in Tokyo, the exhibit promises a rare opportunity to experience the artistry and nostalgia of EarthBound firsthand.

For the global audience, the broadcast serves as a heartfelt tribute from the creators, offering a shared space for remembrance and appreciation.

Further details and stream links can be found via Hobonichi’s official Twitter and the Shibuya PARCO event website.

EarthBound Shibuya Mother Shibuya PARCO Shigesato Itoi Hobonichi Mother 2 Nintendo Mother no Katachi