Best Artillery Games Like Worms (1995)

Ever since Team17 released Worms in 1995, the 2D turn-based artillery genre has maintained a dedicated following. This article explores the defining mechanics that made the original game a classic—such as destructible terrain, trajectory physics, and quirky arsenals—while highlighting the best modern and classic alternatives for players seeking that same competitive, turn-based action.

The Formula That Defined a Genre

The original Worms combined simple mechanics with deep tactical gameplay. Players commanded a squad of cartoon invertebrates across randomly generated, fully destructible landscapes. Victory required calculating wind resistance, elevation, and projectile arcs, all while managing a strict turn timer. The tension of knocking an opponent into the water with a well-aimed bazooka or a misplaced grenade became the blueprint for dozens of successors.

Standout Games Like Worms

• Hedgewars: A free, open-source turn-based strategy game that closely mirrors the gameplay of classic Worms. Instead of annelids, players control hedgehogs armed with an absurd array of weapons across customizable, destructible maps. It features robust local and online multiplayer, making it one of the most faithful modern tributes available.
• Maggots: For those seeking quick, accessible gameplay directly in the web browser, Maggots offers a streamlined experience inspired by the original turn-based formula. It captures the retro aesthetic, physics-based aiming, and terrain destruction of early artillery titles without requiring installation.
• ShellShock Live: This title trades cartoon animals for customizable tanks while retaining the 2D trajectory-shooting core. ShellShock Live features hundreds of upgradable weapons, vibrant visual effects, and dynamic terrain deformation. It emphasizes leveling up and competitive multiplayer matches with up to eight players.
• Gunbound: A classic online multiplayer turn-based artillery game that introduced role-playing elements to the genre. Players select different "Mobiles" (vehicles), each with unique firing characteristics, armor types, and elemental affinities, adding a layer of strategic composition to standard artillery combat.
• Scorched Earth: The historical predecessor to Worms, often called "the mother of all games." While it lacks the platforming and character movement of Worms, its core mechanic of adjusting angle and power to lob explosives across mountains directly inspired the 1995 classic.

Key Features to Look For

When searching for games in this style, prioritize three core mechanics: fully deformable terrain that alters the battlefield each round, reliable trajectory physics affected by environmental factors like wind, and an unpredictable weapon sandbox that balances skill shots with chaotic fun. Whether playing standalone indie games or browser-based recreations, the turn-based artillery genre continues to thrive on competitive precision and strategic destruction.