Best Artillery Games Like Worms (1995)

Ever since Team17 released Worms in 1995, the 2D turn-based artillery genre has captivated players with its blend of physics-based trajectories, fully destructible terrain, and chaotic multiplayer competition. This guide explores the defining mechanics of the genre and highlights the best classic and modern games that capture the strategic, explosive fun of the original Worms.

What Defines the 2D Artillery Genre

The gameplay formula established by Worms relies on several core mechanics:

• Turn-Based Rounds: Players take turns moving individual units across a 2D plane within a strict time limit.
• Destructible Terrain: Explosions remove chunks of the map, altering cover, opening paths, and creating hazards.
• Physics-Driven Ballistics: Players must calculate wind direction, power, and projectile angles to land precise shots.
• Varied Arsenals: Weapons range from traditional bazookas and grenades to bizarre, unconventional ordnance designed to knock opponents into water hazards.

Top Games Like Worms

Hedgewars

Hedgewars is a completely free, open-source turn-based strategy game directly modeled after the classic Worms format. Instead of annelids, players command squads of hedgehogs armed with an absurd array of weapons, from homing bees to flying saucers. The game features cross-platform multiplayer, deep team customization, and thousands of community-created maps and game modes.

Maggots

For players looking to jump straight into the action without hefty downloads, Maggots provides an accessible, browser-based experience that channels the retro spirit of early artillery titles. It offers classic turn-based combat with destructible maps and trajectory-based weapons, making it a great pick for quick multiplayer skirmishes.

ShellShock Live

While replacing cartoon creatures with tanks, ShellShock Live modernizes the formula with deep progression systems. Players level up to unlock hundreds of unique weapons, ranging from standard artillery shells to devastating orbital strikes. It places a heavy emphasis on multiplayer shootouts, tactical weapon choice, and shot precision across randomized maps.

Gunbound

A landmark in online multiplayer history, Gunbound combines the trajectory calculations of Worms with role-playing elements. Players select unique mobile vehicles, each with specific weapon profiles and movement capabilities, while competing under dynamic conditions influenced by wind changes and environmental status effects.

Liero

Often described as Worms in real time, Liero strips away the turn-based structure in favor of frantic, simultaneous combat. Two players dig through dirt tunnels, swing from ninja ropes, and fire heavy weapons in fast-paced subterranean duels. It is an ideal alternative for those who love the destructible physics of Worms but want faster, twitch-based action.