Adult Swim Games is publishing a new ToeJam & Earl game for PCs and consoles that pays tribute to the series’ formative years on the 16-bit Sega Genesis.
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove, launching in 2017, reunites the funky alien pair for a new procedurally generated quest, and developer Humanature Studios notes that multiplayer co-op will play a significant role in the finished product.
1992’s ToeJam & Earl broke new ground during an era defined by mascot platformers, presenting players a unique overhead-view adventure with roguelike elements. ToeJam & Earl stars a pair of wayward alien rappers who have crash-landed on Earth and must seek a way home while dodging their clueless human pursuers.
The original ToeJam & Earl featured procedurally generated levels with randomly distributed items that give players brief boosts in attack power and maneuverability, and the upcoming sequel will feature gameplay in the same vein. With Back in the Groove, Humanature Studios retains the series’ distinctive mix of action and roguelike gameplay while adding new worlds, items, weapons, and playable characters.
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove is the result of a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised more than $500,000 in funding. Designed by series co-creator Greg Johnson, Back in the Groove promises “a mash-up of the very best features from the classic console games, with a pile of new features thrown in.”
All previous games in the ToeJam & Earl series feature co-op gameplay, and Back in the Groove is no different. Players can enlist a local friend to explore the game’s massive worlds in a couch co-op mode, while up to four players can team up to tackle challenges together via online multiplayer.
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove is available for wishlisting on Steam, and a release date will be revealed in the months ahead.