Team17 has revealed it's unlikely to release a new Worms game in the near future, and is instead keen to focus on creating a new franchise.

“ You’ll probably see a new IP from the company in the next few years

Speaking to IGN at an event celebrating the launch of Worms 3 and Worms Clan Wars , lead designer Gavin Hood explained that the PC-exclusive Clan Wars was designed to be the quintessential Worms experience for the foreseeable future."We’re hoping with [Worms Clan Wars] that there’s so much in it and it’s got full Steam workshop support, so people can make their own items and stuff," he explained. "We’re going to support the game post-launch quite considerably, so we’re not planning on releasing another Worms game for a while. We’re going to focus on this.When asked whether next-gen consoles were being considered for the project, Hood wouldn't be pinned down but did admit the studio was currently experimenting with dev kits."I assume we’re looking [at next-gen]," he said. "I mean, we’ve got next-gen dev kits and that, but I don’t know what we’re planning on doing."So for now at least, it seems if you want to get your Worms fix you'll have to make do with either Clan Wars or Worms 3. In terms of the post-launch support Clan Wars will be getting, Hood was quick to emphasise it wouldn't be in the form of DLC; Team17 is keen to give users the tools to create free content for themselves and others, and then focus on fostering a community spirit that encourages creativity and sharing.Worms 3 is available right now on iOS devices, and Worms Clan Wars will be available exclusively on PC from August 15.

Luke Karmali is IGN's UK Junior Editor. You too can revel in mediocrity by following him on IGN and on Twitter