A raccoon known as Jimothy has become an online sensation after a video showed him in Seattle’s Ballard neighbourhood, prompting artist Chris Pirillo to make a free browser game based on him. The four-level, retro-style game reflects how quickly viral animal content can spread into gaming culture, with several games companies also joining in with social-media references.

Veterinarians quoted by Smithsonian Magazine said Jimothy may have short spine syndrome, a rare congenital condition that can leave the spine compressed and give animals a hunched appearance, although it cannot be confirmed from videos alone. The game, playable on desktop and mobile, has players cross streets, raid bins, evade paparazzi and climb to Jimothy’s den; its creator designed it as a brief, accessible tribute rather than a difficult challenge.