Best described as "Worms done right" (that is, not turn-based), Liero is an incredibly addictive third-parson, 2D deathmatch style game in split-screen mode designed to be played against a friend (although computer opponent is available).There are four game types, including "Kill 'em all", "Game of Tag", Capture the Flag" and "Simple Capture the Flag," all of which are very addictive.

At the start of each game, you choose 5 of the 40 weapons provided. That's right-- 40 weapons, and they are not all shotgun variations, either. These include bazookas, mini-guns, banana bombs, and many other creative weapons that you have to use to find out what they are. The game looks a lot like Worms 1 (in fact, you could say it's a clone), but in my opinion is much more fun because you play in real-time instead of turn-based mode. One of the game's strengths is that it is highly customizable. You can change most settings in the game, e.g. Lives, Health, Reloading Times for your Weapons, Player colors, and so on.

The author describes the game as "an earthworm simulation game based on a real physical model," and he's not kidding about "real physical model" bit. The game not only obeys the laws of physics, but feels real. The "Ninja Rope," (a concept "borrowed" from Worms 1) really feels like an elastic string, and the trajectory of bullets follows realistic curves. And of course, I have to mention the gore, which is definitely one of the game's attractions: when you blast enemy earthworms, you will see their blood splattered on the screen, quite realistically. Okay, so it may not be a politically correct game, but since we're talking about earthworms drawn in cartoon style, I don't think anyone can blame Liero for cultivating a violent streak in kids ;)

There's no better proof of the game's addictiveness than the fact that there are dozens, if not hundreds, of Liero fansites on the WWW, and numerous fanmade levels and clones. One of the best fanmade add-ons to the original is Johan Otterud's level editor, aptly named WormHole, which lets you design your own Liero levels, by using any of your favorite graphics software. He also designed Liero Graphics Editor and Blood Increaser, two excellent add-ons that I guarantee will tremendously increase your enjoyment (and gore ;)) of the already awesome game. You can download all these programs from the WormHole website in related link below. (In fact, the screenshot above shows a level not included with the original Liero but created with Otterud's tools. Also be sure to check out other great fansites that will ensure Liero popularity among fans of quick action fun for years to come. If you're an action fan, and especially multiplayer action fan, Liero is a must-have.