Few strategy games have had the longevity that the Worms franchise has enjoyed. A Space Oddity, the latest entry in the series and the first to come to the Wii, doesn't stray far from the formula set by its predecessors, and it's not a very lengthy game, but it does add a number of new elements that manage to push the series forward.

As evidenced by the game's subtitle, this one takes place in space. Featuring a Pikmin-esque plotline, the Worms crash their spacecraft and must collect the pieces to reassemble it and make their way home (wherever that may be). The game features all the humor you've come to expect, and some of the sci-fi themed weapons further add to that. There are six areas to visit, each featuring a unique visual theme and sporting appropriate (and quite good) music. That being the case, series vets will likely be able to plow through the game in record time, especially considering the first area is simple enough to feel like a tutorial.

Besides your new arsenal, one of the other major gameplay nuances is the disparity of gravity. Different areas have different gravitational pulls, which forces you to rethink some of the trickier jumps or missile launches. Other environmental effects (wind, ice) can also add to the levels' general haphazardness.

Being a Wii title, it was inevitable that there would be waggle controls. Despite relying solely on the Wii remote (no nunchuck), you won't use it for aiming. Instead, you'll pull off various hand motions to launch some of your weapons. This can be tricky, and downright frustrating at first, as the timing has to be near perfect. You choose the amount of power needed to launch an object by tilting the Wii remote up or down, then lock it in with the B button. Releasing the button at the wrong time, though, will not only not launch it, but also force you to reset your power meter. Eventually this becomes second nature, but those who are new to the series will have a difficult time adjusting as they also learn how to play the game.

And that's where things really haven't changed. A Space Oddity still features the same standard, turn-based combat . There are some collection and puzzle elements, but if you played one Worms game before, you'll feel right at home.

To round out the package, there are six new minigames that make excellent use of the Wii remote, and these are a blast to play, even if they're just simple time wasters. Up to four people can join in on the minigame fun or in multiplayer competitions, which feature all of the usual perks, including character customization and a level editor, which works quite well on the Wii.

When all is said and done, this is just another Worms game, but one that hopefully taps into a new casual market. There's plenty of fun to be had if you enjoy the multiplayer experience (offline only), even if the single player game isn't terribly long. It looks sharp, features great witty banter among the worms, and offers sufficient distinctions to draw seasoned players in at least one more time.

Related Links

Worms: A Space Oddity Game Guide

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