Scorched Earth

Scorched Earth, released in 1991 by Wendell Hicken, is a turn-based artillery game that became a staple of early '90s PC gaming. Dubbed “The Mother of All Games,” it pits players against each other in strategic tank battles across destructible, 2D landscapes.

Players take turns adjusting angle, power, and weapon type to land the perfect shot on their opponents, all while contending with wind, terrain, and gravity. A vast arsenal—including napalm, MIRVs, and funky bombs—adds chaos and variety to every match. Customizable settings, AI difficulty, and humorous commentary make each round uniquely unpredictable and entertaining.

Known for its addictive gameplay, quirky humor, and impressive replayability, Scorched Earth is a beloved classic that laid the groundwork for many artillery games that followed. Whether playing solo or with friends, it offered endless hours of explosive fun on even the most modest hardware.