Executive Summary

The "Worm" archetype is a vast series of LIGHT Reptile monsters, thematically representing a cosmic invasion. Rooted in the classic FLIP effect mechanic, their strategy is a slow, methodical game of attrition. The core game plan involves setting a defensive field of face-down monsters to disrupt the opponent, buying time to unleash their ultimate power play: the devastating Trap Card, W Nebula Meteorite. While the archetype boasts a monster for nearly every letter of the alphabet, only a select few form the engine that gives the deck its surprising competitive potential.

The Core Engine

Worm Xex

The premier starter. On Normal Summon, it sends a "Worm" from the Deck to the GY, kickstarting the main combo by setting up Worm Yagan.

Worm Yagan

The primary combo piece. After being sent to the GY by Xex, it Special Summons itself face-down. Its FLIP effect provides crucial non-destruction removal.

Worm Cartaros

The deck's searcher. When flipped, it adds any Level 4 or lower "Worm" to the hand, ensuring consistency.

The Meteorite Power Play

The entire "Worm" strategy culminates in the activation of a single, game-altering trap card. This play transforms a passive board into an overwhelming advantage. By deciphering this mysterious alien signal, a duelist can turn the tide.

Worm Xex
Missing: 11722335
1

Establish the Board

Summon Worm Xex to send Worm Yagan from Deck to GY. Yagan then revives itself face-down. Set W Nebula Meteorite and pass.

W Nebula Meteorite
Missing: 90075978
2

Activate on Opponent's Turn

During the opponent's End Phase, activate W Nebula Meteorite. This flips all your monsters face-up, triggering their effects like Yagan's bounce.

Worm King
Missing: 10026986
3

Reap the Rewards

Meteorite's effect continues: your monsters are flipped back down, you draw cards for each, and you Special Summon Worm King from your Deck.

The End Board

Ideal Setup

Worm King
Missing: 10026986
  • Worm King: A 2700 ATK body with repeatable, non-once-per-turn spot removal.
  • Face-Down Engine: Worm Xex and Yagan are reset, ready to be flipped or used for an Xyz Summon on your turn.
  • Card Advantage: A significant hand advantage from Meteorite's draw effect.

Legacy Boss: Worm Zero

Worm Zero
Missing: 74506079
  • The Ultimate Invader: A Fusion monster that gains powerful effects based on the number of different "Worms" used as material.
  • Fallen from Grace: Once a terrifying win condition via the original "Future Fusion," its summoning is now too slow and resource-intensive for modern play.

Competitive Analysis

Strengths

  • Explosive Advantage: A resolved W Nebula Meteorite is one of the most powerful advantage-generating traps in the game.
  • Resilient to Targeting: FLIP effects naturally dodge common monster negation like Effect Veiler or Infinite Impermanence.
  • Rogue Power: Can catch unprepared opponents completely off guard with its unique control style and sudden board presence.

Weaknesses

  • Extremely Slow: Fundamentally reactive, it struggles to establish any meaningful interaction on the first turn.
  • Critical Choke Point: The entire strategy hinges on drawing and resolving W Nebula Meteorite, which is not searchable.
  • Backrow Vulnerability: Highly susceptible to common Spell & Trap removal like Harpie's Feather Duster or Cosmic Cyclone.

Key Tech Choices

  • King of the Feral Imps: A vital Rank 4 Xyz that searches for Worm Xex, drastically improving consistency.
  • Honest: Since all core "Worms" are LIGHT, this hand trap provides unexpected and powerful battle protection.
  • Staple Trap Cards: Heavy backrow like Solemn Judgment and Compulsory Evacuation Device is mandatory to survive until the late game.

Banlist Impact

While the Worm core remains untouched, the archetype's moderate (benefits from Rank 4 Xyz toolbox and LIGHT support like Honest) means restrictions on generic support cards do have an impact.

Affected Synergistic Cards

Forbidden

  • King of the Feral Imps
  • Abyss Dweller
  • Apollousa, Bow of the Goddess
  • Borreload Savage Dragon

Limited

  • Pot of Prosperity
  • Called by the Grave
  • Crossout Designator
  • Triple Tactics Talent
  • Solemn Judgment

Meta Implications: Despite restrictions on support cards, Worm's low (highly linear strategy centered on Flip effects and field spell dependency) allows the deck to remain viable with alternative tech choices.

Banlist Status Summary

+ analyzed • 0 archetype restrictions9 synergistic cards restricted

Find Worm Decks

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