The popular turn-based artillery combat series Worms is set to receive a new 3D installment, Worms: Galactic Tactics, slated for release in 2027. Developed by Absolutely Games and published by Team17, this spin-off shifts the franchise into the realm of turn-based tactical strategy, drawing comparisons to titles like XCOM.
Despite the crowded tactical genre, Worms: Galactic Tactics aims to carve out its own niche. The game will feature a campaign that follows three named worms through a televised murder tournament, structured with roguelike elements. This means players will likely progress through runs, with upgrades and powerful abilities like Holy Hand Grenades and Concrete Donkeys becoming available as rewards that carry over between attempts. While the series is known for its chaotic multiplayer, the developers have stated the game is "singleplayer focused," though online and local multiplayer modes are planned.
Galactic Tactics introduces a significant departure from the series' traditional aiming mechanics. Instead of relying on percentage-based hit chances, players will manually aim projectiles. A new timing-based minigame determines accuracy, with a perfect execution rewarding critical damage. However, missing the sweet spot can result in a wide projectile arc, potentially even harming friendly worms. This system aims to blend player skill with the series' signature slapstick humor, ensuring that any calamitous outcomes are the player's own doing.
Positioning remains a crucial element, with a vertical advantage offering a distinct tactical benefit. Players are encouraged to secure higher ground to make landing critical shots easier, while simultaneously making it more difficult for enemies to return fire. This contrasts with the traditional cover-based strategy, pushing players to aggressively pursue advantageous positions.
Environments in Worms: Galactic Tactics are smaller and grid-based, but still feature destructible terrain. This allows for dynamic tactical shifts, with collapsing structures and newly opened paths creating both opportunities and hazards. The game aims to capture the blend of strategic planning and emergent, accidental chaos that has defined the Worms series, adapting it to a roguelike structure. In addition to Galactic Tactics, Absolutely Games is also developing a more classic-styled Worms game for a later release.