Worms W.M.D

Developer: Team17
Release: Aug 23rd 2016
Platforms:
Action
Strategy
Addictive
Humorous
Strategic
Mac Issues
Unbalanced
Worms W.M.D Poster

" Classic action-strategy with inventive weapons and crafting but occasional input delays "

Worms W.M.D Review

Worms W.M.D successfully revitalizes the classic Worms series with updated 2.5D visuals, maintaining the franchise's signature humor and strategic turn-based artillery gameplay. The game offers a vibrant cartoonish art style, detailed terrain, and expressive animations that enhance the playful atmosphere. Players enjoy a wide variety of weapons, from traditional bazookas to inventive additions like concrete donkeys and jetpacks, alongside destructible environments that add tactical depth.

The robust multiplayer supports both online and local play, fostering chaotic and engaging matches with friends or strangers. The inclusion of a single-player campaign and challenge modes adds replayability and gradual difficulty progression. Customization options for worms and a level editor further enrich the experience. However, some players note issues with controls, especially on Mac, and occasional UI and balancing quirks. Despite minor criticisms, Worms W.M.D is widely praised as a fun, accessible, and strategic game suitable for all ages, capturing the essence of the Worms franchise with modern enhancements.

Highlights

Players particularly praise the game's classic yet refined turn-based artillery mechanics, vibrant and sharp 2.5D graphics, and humorous voice lines that preserve the franchise's charm. The extensive weapon variety and destructible terrain add strategic complexity and unpredictable fun. Multiplayer modes, both online and local, are highly enjoyed for their chaotic and competitive nature. Customization features and a level editor provide creative freedom, while the single-player campaign offers engaging challenges that ease players into the mechanics. Overall, the game is celebrated for its addictive gameplay and nostalgic appeal.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include technical issues such as delayed or unresponsive keybinds on Mac platforms, which render the game nearly unplayable for some. Some players find the UI unintuitive, with awkward menus and unorganized customization options. Balancing concerns arise around certain weapons and vehicles feeling overpowered. A few reviews mention the campaign's lack of integration with custom teams and occasionally glitchy menu elements. Additionally, some players feel the game lacks the unique features or polish of earlier Worms titles, and a few express disappointment with the price point relative to content and novelty.

Pros

  • Classic Worms gameplay with modern 2.5D visuals and sharp graphics.
  • Wide variety of weapons including inventive and traditional options.
  • Destructible terrain adds strategic depth and dynamic battles.
  • Robust multiplayer supports online and local play with friends.
  • Humorous voice lines and animations enhance the fun atmosphere.
  • Single-player campaign provides engaging challenges and progression.
  • Customization options for worms add personality and creativity.

Cons

  • Mac version suffers from unresponsive keybinds and input delays.
  • UI menus can be awkward, unorganized, and sometimes glitchy.
  • Some weapons and vehicles feel unbalanced or overpowered.
  • Campaign mode does not support custom teams, limiting personalization.
  • Occasional issues with matchmaking and online connectivity.
  • Lack of unique features compared to previous Worms installments.
  • Price considered high by some relative to content and novelty.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

The worms are back in their most destructive game yet. With a gorgeous, hand-drawn 2D look, brand new weapons, the introduction of crafting, vehicles and buildings plus the return of some much-loved classic weapons and gameplay, Worms W.M.D is the best worms experience ever.

Release Date Aug 23rd 2016
Publisher Team17
Developer Team17
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (4,067)
84% Positive 16% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
79