After recent turmoil about AC Shadows and Star Wars Outlaws, we got, might be, good news from Ubisoft.
It’s Heroes of Might & Magic!
This series has long been a cornerstone in the world of turn-based strategy games, enchanting players with its deep mechanics, rich fantasy lore, and challenging gameplay. As the series approaches its 30th anniversary, Ubisoft is set to release Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, the eighth mainline installment and the first in nearly a decade. This new game promises to breathe fresh life into the beloved franchise, taking players on an epic journey through the mysterious continent of Jadame.
A Return to the Roots
Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era is positioned as a prequel to the entire series, providing players with an opportunity to explore the origins of the fantasy world that has captivated gamers for decades. Set in the never-before-seen continent of Jadame, the game unfolds through a non-linear campaign that offers a deeper understanding of the series’ mythos. Players will traverse a world full of wonders and dangers, building castles, raising armies, and engaging in tactical battles that are both familiar and innovative.
The continent of Jadame has been a subject of intrigue for longtime fans of the series. Mentioned in previous games but never fully explored, Jadame is a land in turmoil, teeming with unique factions, biomes, and creatures. The game’s refreshed visual style is a nod to the vibrant and magical beginnings of the series, evoking a sense of nostalgia while delivering modern, visually stunning environments.
New and Returning Forces Clash in Epic Battles
One of the key elements that have always set the Heroes of Might & Magic series apart is its diverse factions, each with its own unique playstyle and aesthetic. Olden Era continues this tradition, with a roster that includes both classic factions and new additions to the game’s lore.
So far, Ubisoft has confirmed five factions:
- Temple: The classic knights, embodying honor, strength, and chivalry.
- Necropolis: The undead and vampires, masters of death and dark magic.
- Sylvan: The forces of nature and fey folks, guardians of the wild.
- Dungeon: Dark elves and underground creatures, thriving in shadow and subterfuge.
- Hive: Insectoids corrupted by demons, a terrifying new faction with a hive-mind mentality.
A sixth faction remains shrouded in mystery, with Ubisoft promising more details in the lead-up to the game’s release.
A New Take on Classic Strategy
While Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era draws heavily from the series’ established mechanics, it also introduces several new gameplay elements designed to enhance the tactical depth and replayability of the game.
One of the most exciting innovations in Olden Era is the introduction of active abilities for both heroes and creatures. These abilities add a new layer of strategy, allowing players to make tactical decisions that can turn the tide of battle. Additionally, the game features a faction-based perk system, providing further customization and strategic options. Whether you prefer the brute strength of the Temple faction or the dark sorcery of Necropolis, these perks ensure that every faction feels distinct and rewarding to play.
Recognizing the diverse skill levels of its player base, Ubisoft has revamped the AI and introduced multiple difficulty levels in Olden Era. This ensures that both newcomers and veterans can enjoy the game at a pace that suits them. The AI has been designed to be more adaptive and challenging, offering a more dynamic and unpredictable experience in both campaign and skirmish modes.
The Game’s Content So Far
Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era is packed with content, offering a variety of game modes and tools that cater to different playstyles. Whether you prefer to go it alone, team up with friends, or compete against others, there’s something for everyone in this expansive game.
The game features three main game modes: solo, co-op, and multiplayer. Solo mode allows players to immerse themselves in the campaign, while co-op mode offers the chance to team up with friends and tackle challenges together. For those who crave competition, multiplayer mode provides a robust platform for online battles, complete with leaderboards and rankings.
To further enhance replayability, Olden Era includes a random map generator and in-game editor tools. These features allow players to create and share their own maps and scenarios, ensuring that no two playthroughs are ever the same. The map generator creates new landscapes and challenges on the fly, while the editor tools give creative players the freedom to design their own unique experiences.