AWWWW WHAT A CUTE LITTLE…S**T!! DID THAT WORM JUST SHOOT A ROCKET AT ME?!! WHAT THE HELL?!!

Well, it’s been fifteen years since the release of the original Worms for the PC. And after many, many different releases each trying something different with the series, we are offered an HD version of Worms 2: Armageddon for the PSN. Besides the graphical upgrade, it boasts a fairly good amount of additions and upgrades that beef up the PS3 version from other platforms. Let’s see exactly what that entails, shall we?

The awesome turn based worm-on-worm action that was introduced so many years ago is still intact – which is good considering that some of the past releases were a little… off in terms of what was done to the formula. And if you’ve had no previous experience with the Worms series, then go find a cheap copy somewhere and then come back. Done? Good, now let’s get back to it. I should have mentioned the tutorial mode first… oops. The customization options will be the first thing noticed as you build up your team and make it your own, right down to the victory dance (the pelvic thrusting is my favorite – because I am a pervert). As you make your way through the Campaign mode, you’ll notice the great level design which in itself with make it all worth it for some (e.g.- oil barrels explode and alter a stage which gives a strategic edge to everything). At the end you get some monies for the shop to purchase various weapons (Holy Hand Grenade FTW), backgrounds, hats, multiplayer online items and such, even new levels for the Campaign mode (gotta work for your suppers, bitches). Beyond the Campaign Mode is local multiplayer, various online modes (Fort mode is a personal favorite), and different takes on classic Worms. There is a very, very cool random stage generator that you’ve just gotta see – not enough space to go into it so take me at my word. Ranked matches are limited to two teams but unranked can go up to four which gives a good reason to lighten up and have unabashed fun with some friends. The leaderboard is online only which is a little annoying but hey… choo gonna do?

Really there isn’t a whole lot wrong with Armageddon. The only thing that may bug some people is that when you take away all the bells and whistles this is still a pretty standard Worms game – and that may not be the price of admission ($15). There were some slight AI issues with poor decision making, but really, that’s any game. So unless you’re someone who has a crippling fear of cute animated worms, very few people will find fault with Team 17′s latest offering.

Is this the end-all be-all version of Worms? Will it take years out of your life and make you malnourished with it’s gleaming perfection? Will the government take your children away for negligence? Nope. Not even close. But so far this is the best the Worms game in the series. Some may say it’s just a shiny rehash of old gameplay. You know what I say to them? “Blah, blah, blah… play it first and then talk to me”. For newcomers this is a great introduction, and for veterans look past your skepticism and give it a go, you may very well have forgotten how sweet this series is – and how it’s gotten better.

[A copy of the game was provided by the publisher for review purposes.]