Leaked XCOM-like Worms game is now official as Worms: Galactic Tactics

The unannounced Worms game that first appeared through leaked screenshots and gameplay footage earlier this year is real. Team17 has officially revealed Worms: Galactic Tactics, a turn-based tactical roguelike developed by Absolutely Games for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2.

The project was previously known internally as Project Arrakis, with its first apparent screenshots surfacing in May before several minutes of gameplay followed. Those leaks pointed toward an XCOM-style change for the series, replacing its familiar side-on battles with squad movement across 3D tactical arenas.

The first material appeared through the X account @EvilLeeker, showing what appeared to be an active Team17 playtest. Subsequent footage showed worms moving between positions on compact maps, using cover and spending actions on weapons and abilities during turn-based battles.

Destructible environments remained part of the formula despite the perspective change. Explosions could damage the battlefield or knock enemies from their positions, while attacks shown in the footage included effects such as knockback and stun.

Screens shown after battles also suggested players would purchase upgrades between encounters. At the time, that raised the possibility of a roguelike structure, something Team17 has now confirmed as part of the finished concept.

The official version sends custom squads through the Galactic Gauntlet, a series of hand-crafted arenas filled with specialist enemies, bosses, and upgrades. Players are ultimately working toward a confrontation with Emperor Flugg, the character running the competition.

Combat takes place across fully destructible 3D environments, but the familiar Worms arsenal remains important. Classic weapons return alongside additions including the Beambow, Meteor Sheep, and Die-napple, while a modification system allows weapons to gain new effects between battles.

Movement, gadgets, environmental destruction, and weapon combinations can all be used within a turn. Positioning also affects attacks, with high ground improving aim and skill-based timing mechanics determining whether some shots land effectively.

The roguelike structure means losing a run does not erase all progress. Players can spend a resource called Juice on upgrades before sending their squad back into the Galactic Gauntlet for another attempt.

Outside the main roguelike mode, Worms: Galactic Tactics will also support one-versus-one multiplayer locally and online. Squad customization returns as well, including hats, voice banks, names, and gravestones.

Absolutely Games is developing the project after previously creating Classified: France '44, another turn-based tactics game. Team17 will publish Worms: Galactic Tactics when it launches in 2027, although an exact release date has not been announced.

The publisher has also confirmed that a second Worms project is currently in development. Team17 has not revealed its title, developer, platforms, or release window, leaving Galactic Tactics as the only one of the two games players can currently see in action.