Quite simply the most underrated game of all time!
Earthbound is an adorable satire of the whole genre, separating itself from all games created to date with a completely new take on visual graphics, story and character design, that hasn't been taken forward due to it's enormous lack of popularity.
Earthbound is most definitely not, as most people would claim a children's game. It's childish graphics and storyline are not to be taken lightly, for there is a sort of cult vibe to the game, and a subtlety to it that most, if not all kids cannot understand. Plus the game is far from being easy, and if you are not careful, you will find yourself facing the dreaded "game over" screen several times.
Replay value is also perfect, and I find myself urging to play the game again and again about once a year.
The fact that nintendo refuses to give Mother I and III translations to the english language never ceases to amaze me, especially with the global success of their characters in the super smash bros. franchise.
Anyway, there are far too many qualities to the game, that I would not want to spoil for anyone who hasn't played it yet, so all I can say is if you are a fan of the genre, and have not played this game, GET IT! NOW!!!