Worms 4: Mayhem

"Lots of Mayhem"

Gameplay

The Worms series of games are based on the idea of a few cute looking worms taking turns blasting each other with dangerous weapons. The game was combined with cartoon styled animations and a large amount of British humor. Worms was originally a 2D series done in a similar manner to a side scroller game, until the introduction of Worms 3D, the first game to feature the Worms idea in 3D. Worms 4: Mayhem is very similar to Worms 3d in most ways. The controls are mostly the same. They are easy to learn and not very complex. This game is very easy to pick up and play. The levels of the game have improved a lot since the previous game. The levels are bigger, they have more detail, random mine dispensers, and a lot of land to explore. The computer intelligence of Worms 4 is much better then Worms 3D. Computer controlled worms will not blow themselves up as easily, and you might find them an interesting challenge. The AI Worm in 3D occasionally had trouble navigating the terrain, however, this problem appears to have been fixed in Worms 4. Worms 4: Mayhem brought about some new weapons for the Worms series, as well as many returning favorites. Some weapons a Worms veteran might recognize are the Bazooka, the shotgun, and the sheep. New additions include a sniper rifle, inflatable balloons and poison arrows.

Graphics

The graphics in this game are excellent, though not exactly photorealistic. Water in the background sparkles, water splashes when some debris flies into it, and the background looks amazing. Most of the landscapes look as if they were from a beautiful painting, although the style of the game is very cartoon based. New smoke effects enhance the explosions animations to make them more interesting to look at. Most of the animations in the game aren't intended to be realistic, but rather to amuse players and make them laugh, and they definitely accomplish their purpose.

Sound
The music in this game is good. Most of the time, it plays softly in the background, and you will not notice it much. The same style of music composition is in the game, a combination of ominous effects and cheesy background music. Sound effects have been improved in this game tremendously. Explosions sound cartoon-ish, but they fit the atmosphere. The classic voice overs return with no change to them. For those who haven't heard them before, they are soft and puny voices with a faint hint of an English accent. They are designed to make people chuckle with cheesy one liners.

Lifetime

This game has many unlock-ables, such as costumes, weapons and levels, to keep most people occupied for at least a month. Throw in the weapon and level creating system, XBOX Live support, and trophies to unlock, and you've got a game that will last. It should be noted however, that the game's replayability level really depends on how much the player likes the Worms game play, as it is difficult to enjoy playing the game again if it is not enjoyed the first time.

Overall

This game is a great solo game, on-line multi-player ,or a party game to keep your guests entertained. This is a must have for any action or strategy gamer alike. If you are a casual gamer, rent it first to see if you like it. If you're looking for something to keep you entertained, this game will be worth all that you pay for it.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/10/05, Updated 05/30/08

Game Release: Worms 4: Mayhem (US, 10/04/05)