Worms Forts: Under Siege represents a bold evolution for the long-running strategy franchise, merging turn-based tactics with real-time construction elements. Released on November 18, 2004, this title challenges players to command a garrison of up to four worms in a bid to dominate wacky 3-D cartoon environments. The core loop involves expanding your fortification while managing a strict 60-second turn timer, forcing teams to make quick decisions to maximize their strategic advantage against opponents.

Genre and Gameplay Mechanics

Classified as a strategy and fighting game, Worms Forts: Under Siege abandons the series' signature destructible landscapes to facilitate base-building. Players begin with a central stronghold that serves as a supply center. Using a grid-based system, teams construct structures outward from this hub. Buildings must be placed next to existing structures, and walls automatically form between towers. These walls are critical to survival; if a wall is destroyed, it severs the supply chain, causing all disconnected buildings to collapse.

Progression is tied to "Victory Locations," marked by floating yellow stars on the map. Expanding a fort to cover these locations unlocks advanced building tiers and powerful weaponry. Basic towers provide access to standard arsenal items, while higher-level structures enable devastating attacks. Players can also erect a Wonder, a high-level building that guarantees victory if it remains standing for three consecutive turns, though this encourages a more defensive playstyle.

Story and Setting

The game is set across four ancient eras, each hosting five epic battles. The narrative serves as a humorous backdrop to the chaotic gameplay, focusing on worms defending their castles or unleashing wrath upon rivals. The setting emphasizes the absurdity of the conflict, with armies of worms using medieval architecture and modern destruction to determine who truly rules the castle.

Notable Features

  • Base-Building Strategy: Construct and expand forts using eight different building types, each offering unique battlefield advantages.
  • Advanced Arsenal: Unlock and deploy classic siege weaponry with a Worms twist, including flaming oil, rocket-propelled hippos, explosive fridge-freezers, and mounted cannons.
  • Multiplayer Options: Engage in hotseat, LAN, or FortNet multiplayer battles to test your fortifications against human opponents.
  • Single-Player Campaign: Battle through 20 missions to hone your siege tactics.
  • Supply Chain Mechanics: Manage the integrity of your walls to keep your growing city connected to your stronghold.

Platform Availability

Worms Forts: Under Siege is available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 2, allowing players on various systems to experience this unique take on the franchise.

Who It Appeals To

This title appeals to fans of the Worms series who enjoy experimenting with the formula and strategy gamers interested in turn-based base-building. While the game introduces complexity that may slow the pace compared to traditional entries, its unique mechanics and multiplayer focus offer a distinct experience for those looking to prove their worth as king of the castle.