GURPS vs We Are But Worms
Compare GURPS and We Are But Worms side by side. See differences in complexity, dice, genre, cost, and more.
| GURPS | We Are But Worms | |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Universal | Universal |
| Play Style | Crunchy, Simulation, Sandbox, Character Building, Tactical, Realistic, Grid-Based | Rules-Light, One-Shot Friendly, GM-Less, Freeform Magic, Experimental |
| Core Mechanic | Roll 3d6 under target number. Advantage/disadvantage system via character traits. | The entire game is one word. No dice, no stats, no GM. Playable as a tabletop RPG or LARP. Explores physical embodiment and perspective through the act of play itself. |
| Dice | 3d6 | Diceless |
| Complexity | Very High | Very Low |
| Accessibility | High | Very High |
| Community | Medium | Very Low |
| License | SJ Games Online Policy | Proprietary |
| Cost | Free (Lite) / $$$ | Free / $ |
| Publisher | Steve Jackson Games | Riverhouse Games |
| Year | 2004 | 2019 |
| Best For | Groups who want a single system for every genre with granular simulation and deep customization. | Anyone curious about the absolute boundary of what an RPG can be — a single-word game about embodiment, physicality, and being a worm. |
| Highlights | Highly customizable point-buy system, simulation-focused, one system for any genre | Entire game is a single word, playable as tabletop or LARP, zero barrier to entry, has spawned numerous community hacks and adaptations |
| Considerations | Character creation requires significant point-budget planning, combat rules are granular with many modifiers to track, full system spans two 576-page core books plus supplements, GM prep is substantial for campaigns using multiple sourcebooks | No mechanical structure — no dice, no stats, no resolution system, one word of rules text with no GM guidance or scenario framework, single session only, no character creation or advancement |