Released in 1991 for the NES, Wurm: Journey to the Center of the Earth! is an incredibly ambitious multi-genre action game developed by Cyclone System. You play as Moby, the leader of an expedition piloting the advanced VZR drilling tank into the earth’s core to investigate a series of mysterious earthquakes. Instead of sticking to one style, the game constantly shifts gears between side-scrolling vehicle combat, top-down shooting, first-person boss encounters, and on-foot platforming sections. Tied together by animated cutscenes and a surprisingly deep narrative, it stands out as one of the most varied and cinematic experiences on the console.
How to Play
Because the gameplay modes change frequently, your objectives vary from navigating maze-like subterranean caverns in your vehicle to exploring enemy bases on foot. The game uses standard NES controls, which are mapped to your keyboard in the browser:
- Movement / Aim: Arrow Keys
- Action 1 (A Button): X
- Action 2 (B Button): Z
- Start / Pause: Enter
- Select / Menu: Shift
Tips
- Talk to your crew: During the vehicle sections, pausing the game lets you speak with your crew members. They provide valuable hints and can sometimes repair your shields.
- Conserve resources: In the first-person boss fights, your more powerful attacks consume energy. Rely on basic shots to manage the probability meter before committing to heavy attacks.
- Watch your health: When exploring on foot, Moby’s health pool is separate from the VZR tank. Take your time during platforming segments to avoid unnecessary damage.
This was known as Chitei Senkou Bazolder in Japan and released 15 days earlier than the US version, on November 15th 1991.
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