The "Mother Series" is a popular video game franchise developed by Nintendo. It began with the release of the first game, EarthBound, in Japan in 1989, known as Mother. The series is known for its unique blend of humor, emotional storytelling, and quirky characters, set in a modern-day world that contrasts with typical fantasy settings. The games often feature a turn-based combat system and focus on themes of friendship, family, and the struggle against evil. The series has a dedicated fanbase, particularly for its second installment, EarthBound, which was released in North America in 1995 and has since gained a cult following.