<p>This study investigates the mechanical behavior and damage characteristics of jointed rock-like materials with varying fissure thicknesses and locations. Rock-like specimens were prepared based on a theoretical material ratio and subjected to uniaxial compression tests, graded-loading creep tests, and post-creep compression tests. Combining them with the PFC numerical simulation and acoustic emission technology to study the crack extension evolution characteristics of the fissured rock body. The results show that the stress–strain curve, crack initiation stress, crack extension path, and acoustic emission ringing counts are jointly affected by the fissure position and thickness. The fissure initiation occurs at a lower stress level when the position is in the middle, and the end of the fissure is more prone to fissure initiation rupture under the same fissure thickness. Under the condition of the same fissure position, the crack initiation of cracked rock with larger fissure thickness occurs earlier; for the laws of compressive strength, crack evolution, and the ratio of crack initiation stress to peak stress, the inflection point of the law change is at the time when the fissure thickness is 1.0&#xa0;mm. With the increase of the distribution position of the fissure, the upward trend of the AE energy counting curve becomes flatter, and the curve enters into the steeper increase point after the loading time is longer. This study can provide a reference for the safe construction and disaster prevention of underground rock works.</p>