Best Games Like Worms: Top Artillery Tactics Games

Ever since Team17 launched Worms in 1995, the turn-based artillery genre has captivated players with its blend of physics-based trajectory calculations, destructible terrain, and chaotic multiplayer fun. This guide explores the defining mechanics of the classic 1995 title and highlights the best alternative games that capture the same spirit of trajectory planning, terrain destruction, and tactical humor.

The Core Formula of the 1995 Classic

The original Worms succeeded by keeping its core gameplay loop simple yet endlessly replayable:

• Turn-Based Strategy: Players take turns moving individual units across a 2D map within a strict time limit.
• Trajectory and Wind Mechanics: Projectiles are affected by player angle, launch power, and environmental wind conditions.
• Fully Destructible Environments: Explosions carve holes in the landscape, creating hazards and opportunities to knock opponents into water for instant eliminations.
• Quirky Arsenals: A mix of standard ballistic weapons (bazookas, grenades) and unconventional utility items (teleports, ninja ropes, airstrikes).

Top Games Similar to Worms

Maggots

For players looking for a lightweight, fast-paced tribute to the 2D artillery genre, Maggots offers classic turn-based combat built around simple mechanics and retro-inspired physics. It focuses on accessible browser-based gameplay where players trade explosive shots, adjust for angles, and blast away the ground beneath their opponents, making it a great pick for quick multiplayer skirmishes.

Hedgewars

Hedgewars is a free, open-source turn-based strategy game directly modeled after the 2D Worms series. Players control teams of hedgehogs armed with an absurd variety of weapons, including homing bees, piano strikes, and melon bombs. It features cross-platform multiplayer, fully customizable maps, and deep campaign modes.

ShellShock Live

ShellShock Live modernizes the artillery formula by putting players in control of tanks instead of cartoon creatures. The game features 2D destructible arenas, an upgrade system with hundreds of distinct weapons, and active online multiplayer modes. The progression system rewards precise aiming and long-range trick shots.

Gunbound

A landmark title in competitive online gaming, Gunbound mixes Worms-style trajectory shooting with vehicle-based strategy. Players choose distinct "Mobiles," each with unique shot types, shield defenses, and movement abilities. Environmental factors like the "Thor" satellite laser and shifting weather discs add tactical depth beyond basic wind mechanics.

Scorched Earth

For those interested in the roots of the genre, Scorched Earth (1991) is the quintessential DOS title that inspired Worms. While simpler visually, it pioneered the mechanic of purchasing specialized ammunition, managing shields, and accounting for wind resistance across jagged, destructible mountain ranges.

Worms W.M.D

For the most authentic modern evolution of the 1995 classic, Worms W.M.D represents the pinnacle of Team17's modern releases. It returns to the classic 2D hand-drawn art style, restores the original ninja rope physics, and adds modern mechanics like building interiors, mounted turrets, drivable vehicles, and weapon crafting.