Hedgewars
Turn-based hedgehog warfare. Yes, really.
How to install Hedgewars for free
Hedgewars is a free strategy game released under Open Source (GPL-2.0). It runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, needs about 180 MB of disk space, and requires no account, payment or trial. The fastest route is the PlayBound Launcher, which handles the download and setup in one click.
One-click install
PlayBound fetches the official release — no third-party mirrors.
Installation steps
- 1
Install the PlayBound Launcher, then find Hedgewars and press Install. The launcher downloads the official release, unpacks it and creates a shortcut. This is the fastest route and it never uses third-party mirrors.
- 2
Alternatively, download Hedgewars directly from the official site at https://hedgewars.org. Always download from the official source — third-party mirrors of free games are a common malware vector.
- 3
Windows
Run the downloaded installer and follow the prompts. If Windows SmartScreen warns about an unrecognised publisher, that is normal for open-source projects without a paid code-signing certificate — choose More info, then Run anyway.
- 4
macOS
Open the downloaded .dmg and drag the app into Applications. On first launch macOS may refuse to open it as unidentified — right-click the app and choose Open to approve it once.
- 5
Linux
Check your distribution's package manager first, which is usually the easiest route. Otherwise download the AppImage from the official site, mark it executable and run it.
chmod +x *.AppImage && ./*.AppImage - 6
Launch the game and look at the settings menu before your first session — resolution and control defaults are worth checking. Hedgewars needs roughly 180 MB of free disk space.
System requirements
Minimum
1 GHz CPU · 1 GB RAM · Any GPU · 250 MB storage
Recommended
Any modern machine
Install questions
Is Hedgewars free?
Yes, entirely. Hedgewars is open-source under GPL-2.0 with no purchases, DLC or advertising.
Is Hedgewars like Worms?
Yes, closely. Turn-based artillery with destructible terrain, wind and angle mechanics, a large absurd weapon roster and hotseat multiplayer. Hedgehogs replace worms and weapon balance differs, but the formula is faithfully reproduced.
Can several people play Hedgewars on one computer?
Yes — hotseat multiplayer on a single machine is the primary mode and requires no extra controllers, accounts or internet connection.
Does Hedgewars have single-player content?
Yes, including a campaign, training missions and matches against AI opponents, though the game is at its best with other people.
Does Hedgewars have online multiplayer?
Yes, with public rooms and an official server. Live server and player counts are shown on the Hedgewars servers page.