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Worms (Europe) (Beta)

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Inside Worms

SEGA Genesis
Strategy
Beta
5· 0 votes

Worms (Europe) (Beta) is a pre-release build of the classic turn-based strategic artillery game, originally conceived by Andy Davidson and hitting the SEGA Genesis around 1995. This version carries a beta tag, meaning it's an incomplete or test iteration that may differ slightly from the final retail version. It belongs squarely to the strategy genre, focusing on careful aiming and indirect fire rather than real-time action. The European region tag suggests this build was intended for release in Europe, and while the core concept is identical to the multi-platform hit, this particular Genesis beta offers a snapshot of the development process. In practice, you control a team of worms on a randomly generated 2D landscape. Each turn, you select a weapon from an arsenal that includes bazookas, grenades, shotguns, and more outlandish tools like sheep or banana bombs. The goal is to eliminate opposing teams by reducing their worms' health to zero, using terrain deformation and gravity to your advantage. The turn-based structure means you have time to calculate trajectory and power, but wind and elevation add unpredictability. Up to four teams can compete, either human-controlled or AI, making it a mix of puzzle-like strategy and chaotic fun. For retro gaming enthusiasts, this beta is a curiosity rather than a polished experience. It offers a glimpse into how Team17 fine-tuned the gameplay before the final Genesis release. The core loop of aiming and destruction is intact, but expect possible bugs, placeholder graphics, or missing features. If you enjoy tactical artillery games like the later Worms entries or Scorched Earth, this early build is worth a look for historical value. Just don't expect the same level of content as the full version.

GAME INFO

Platform: SEGA Genesis
Genre: Strategy
Released: 1995
Players: 1-4
Region: Europe
Version: Beta

How to play Worms online

Getting Started

When you boot up Worms (Europe) (Beta), you are greeted with a menu to set up a match. Choose the number of teams (2-4) and assign human or computer control. The game then generates a random landscape with hills and caves. Your first turn gives you a team of worms scattered across the terrain; you select one worm to act. The core loop is simple: aim your weapon using the d-pad to adjust angle, then hold the A button to set power. A power bar appears, and releasing the button fires. Wind direction and strength, shown by a pointer in the corner, affects your projectile's flight path.

Each worm has a limited amount of health and can take damage from enemy fire or falling into water. The match ends when only one team remains. The beta version may lack some weapons or have different balance, so experiment with the arsenal. Use the B button to select items from your inventory. If you land a direct hit or cause a worm to fall off the map, that worm is eliminated. Keep an eye on the turn timer - each turn has a time limit, so plan your shot quickly. After every team has moved, the cycle repeats until victory.

For newcomers, start with a simple weapon like the bazooka to get a feel for trajectory. The shotgun offers two shots per turn but requires precise aim. Remember that the terrain is destructible, so you can tunnel through hills to reach enemies or create cover. The beta may have quirks, so save often using the in-game save state if your emulator allows it. Above all, embrace the chaos - Worms is as much about luck as strategy.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: A button
S: B button
Z: C button
A: X button (6-button pad)
Q: Y button (6-button pad)
E: Z button (6-button pad)
Enter: Start / Mode

Worms FAQ

Which regions was Worms released in?

The original Worms appeared on many platforms worldwide, but this specific Genesis beta carries a European region tag. The final retail version of Worms on Genesis also saw a North American release, though the beta build is often tied to Europe.

Does Worms have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

Yes, Worms supports up to four teams in each match, with players taking turns on the same screen. This is competitive multiplayer rather than co-op, as each team fights to eliminate the others. The beta likely retains this multiplayer functionality.

Is Worms exclusive to SEGA Genesis or did it appear on other systems?

Worms was not exclusive to the Genesis; it originally launched on the Amiga, then spread to numerous platforms including PC, Super Nintendo, and later consoles. The Genesis version is one of many ports, and this beta specifically represents that console iteration.

All SEGA Genesis games