I had forgotten just how surrealistic TJ&E is. The humans are all parodies of we earthlings - and often quite barbed parodies at that - but the world design is rather trippy with the floating landmasses and paths. Less an action game than an exploration-heavy roguelike, particularly in random world mode, this one is all about vibing to the great soundtrack, exploring at a careful, deliberate pace and taking measured risks, whether opening presents or choosing to head up to the next level feeling unprepared. Surprisingly difficult, it was very fun to revisit a childhood favorite and find the game design and style both hold up well. A weird game executed beautifully.

Played on Genesis Mini console, in single-player fixed world mode.