Best Turn-Based Strategy Games Like Worms

This article explores the enduring appeal of the 1995 turn-based artillery classic Worms and examines the best games that replicate its iconic 2D physics, destructible environments, and tactical gameplay. From genre pioneers that laid the groundwork to modern multiplayer successors and lightweight browser adaptations, you will discover the top alternatives to play today.

The Core Appeal of Worms (1995)

Released in 1995 by Team17, Worms perfected a unique gameplay loop: two or more teams take turns maneuvering across a fully destructible landscape, lobbing ballistic weapons with careful considerations of angle, power, and wind speed. Its distinct mix of slapstick humor, high-stakes trajectory calculations, and chaotic environmental hazards established a dedicated subgenre within turn-based strategy. Players looking for alternatives typically seek these specific pillars: turn-based pacing, trajectory physics, and terrain destruction.

Scorched Earth

Before Worms popularized invertebrates with bazookas, Scorched Earth (1991) defined the artillery genre on MS-DOS. Known as "The Mother of All Games," it features stationary tanks calculating shell trajectories over randomized 2D hills. While lacking the character movement and mobility tools of Worms, its deep economy system—where players purchase shields, parachutes, and devastating warheads between rounds—directly influenced modern tactical artillery titles.

Maggots

For players seeking a streamlined, retro-inspired experience accessible directly from modern web browsers, Maggots offers a fast-paced take on the classic artillery formula. Replicating the nostalgic 2D visuals and turn-based skirmishes reminiscent of early 90s artillery titles, it serves as a straightforward option for quick multiplayer sessions without the need for large downloads or complex setups.

Hedgewars

Hedgewars is a free, open-source turn-based strategy game that closely mirrors the mechanical feel of Worms: Armageddon. Replacing worms with combat-ready hedgehogs, the game features an extensive arsenal of wacky weapons, fully deformable terrain, customizable game modes, and native cross-platform online play. It remains one of the most faithful community-driven homages to the classic Worms formula.

Gunbound

For those who enjoy progression systems and distinct player classes, Gunbound translated the artillery style into an online multiplayer format. Players pilot various "Mobiles"—vehicles with distinct firing patterns, defensive stats, and shield capabilities. While wind and elevation mechanics mirror Worms, Gunbound adds depth through dynamic weather avatars that buff or redirect projectile attacks in real time.

ShellShock Live

ShellShock Live modernizes the formula with fast-paced online tank combat. While player positioning is more constrained than in Worms, it emphasizes an enormous progression tree containing hundreds of unique, upgradable weapons. The focus is entirely on precision angles, rebound shots, and calculated team barrages across procedurally generated 2D maps.