There were always those games that you knew your friends would play. There are very few though that last the test of time. Worms happen to be one of those games that I could always count on. From a well thrown banana bomb to a fire punch into the drink there was something always special about worms. This time around it’s being released for the PS3 via the Playstation Network. How does this game hold up to the already established franchise?
Gameplay
While I think most people have played Worms before, let me just touch on the basic concept of the game. Each player is given 4 worms with 100 HP (Health Points). The purpose of the game is to destroy the opponent’s worms utilizing the environment or any of the weapons given to you in the level. The Environmental hazards you have to watch out for starts with Water. Yes you guessed it but Worms can’t swim. Other hazards include Timed Mines and Explosive Barrels. Each level and game type is customizable giving the game a very high replay value.
Controls for worms is also pretty simple to pick up. Like most games you can move around using left and right on the D-pad. The Trick is really with jumping. Single tap to jump forward, while a double tap will have you do a backflip. This is really important to learn cause a well timed jump can really save your ass.
Aiming and Weapons selection is pretty simple as well. Be forewarned to learn the buttons well. There is nothing quite like messing up and sending your worm to a watery grave. (Expect this to happen) Simply tap a button to bring up the weapons, select which weapon you would like to use. Then it’s time to line up the shot. This is done with the Analog stick much akin to Contra. Though your worm will stay in place while aiming. Once shot is lined up hold down the fire button. This is another trick to the game. Depending how long you hold the button down depends on how much strength the shot will have.
Most of my Worms experiences have been based solely around Multiplayer. The game does feature an online component. It links through the PSN and works out quite nicely. As for myself though I think I prefer to play Worms with people in the same room, there is just something special to that. Before you start the game it’s recommended that you go through the Training mode. The first level in Training is the Basics but later on there are various Firing Ranges giving you the shooting skills you’ll need to win.
With the Single Player Campaign there are 35 Levels to choose from, they all range in difficulty. This is almost an extension to your training, really putting together what you’ve learned . Also if that wasn’t enough incentive there is Trophy Support and on top of that Coins that you’ll receive for beating each level. The coins can be exchanged for various Unlocks via the In Game Store.
The Store was also a pretty interesting addition. As it really adds to the replay value of the game. The store is filled with plenty of customizable merchandise from silly hats for your worm to new weapons. The PS3 version features various Hats from Playstation games including Sack Boy. One of the key features to the game is the amount of customization. Each worm on your team can be customized from Color, Hat to even their Speech Style. I myself usually use the Cylon Speech mixed with a Space Helmet. This really adds to the game especially when playing against friends.
Graphics
This version of Worms features full 1080p. The colors are very vibrant and it looks pretty. Animations for all the characters are also really great. I do hope that for future games they add more customization.
Sound
I break the Sound into 2 areas. The SFX for this game were amazing. Packing in a huge amount to the Speech Style Library. There was a larger amount than I’m use to seeing and all the classics were back. The only gripe I have with the Sound area is the Music. It’s dull and very repetitive. Could use a little more spice.
Overall
A really solid addition to the Worms franchise. It’s certainly a game that can be enjoyed both as a party game and even single player. Keep in mind though that it’s a simple game to pick up but a tough one to master.