Heroes of Might and Magic: A Legendary Series of Turn-Based Strategy Games
If you are a fan of fantasy-themed turn-based strategy games, chances are you have heard of or played Heroes of Might and Magic. This series of games has been around for more than 25 years, and has captivated millions of players with its rich lore, diverse factions, strategic combat, and replay value. In this article, we will explore what makes Heroes of Might and Magic such a legendary series, how it has evolved over time, and how you can enjoy it today.
What is Heroes of Might and Magic?
Heroes of Might and Magic, also known as Might & Magic Heroes since 2011, is a series of video games originally created and developed by Jon Van Caneghem through New World Computing. As part of the Might and Magic franchise, the series changed ownership when NWC was acquired by 3DO and again when 3DO closed down and sold the rights to Ubisoft.
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The games feature turn-based, fantasy-themed conflicts in which players control armies of mythical creatures. The series began in 1995 with the release of the first title. A seventh installment, Might & Magic Heroes VII, was released on September 29, 2015.
The history and evolution of the series
The series was inspired by King's Bounty (1990), an earlier game from New World Computing that featured a similar gameplay mechanic of recruiting and commanding fantasy units on a hexagonal grid. King's Bounty was later remade and branded as a Heroes title for the PlayStation 2 game, Quest for the Dragon Bone Staff. A sequel to King's Bounty was released in 2008 as King's Bounty: The Legend.
The first game in the series, Heroes of Might and Magic: A Strategic Quest, was released in 1995 for DOS, Windows, Mac OS, and Game Boy Color. It introduced the basic elements of the series, such as heroes, towns, resources, artifacts, spells, skills, combat, adventure map, scenarios, campaigns, etc. It featured four factions: Castle (humans), Rampart (elves), Necropolis (undead), and Inferno (demons).
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The second game in the series, Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Succession Wars, was released in 1996 for DOS, Windows, Mac OS, RISC OS, and Game Boy Color. It improved upon the first game with better graphics, sound, interface, balance, variety, etc. It added two new factions: Sorceress (fairies) and Warlock (dragons). It also introduced a new feature: secondary skills that could be learned by heroes to enhance their abilities.
The third game in the series, Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia, was released in 1999 for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS, Android. It is widely considered to be the best game in the series by many fans and critics. It expanded upon the second game with more factions (nine in total), more units (more than 100), more spells (more than 100), more skills (more than 40), more artifacts (more than 150), more map objects (more than 250), etc. It also added a new feature: random map generator that could create endless scenarios.
The fourth game in the series, Heroes of Might and Magic IV, was released in 2002 for Windows and Mac OS. It was a radical departure from the previous games with a new engine, new graphics, new interface, new mechanics, new features, etc. It changed the way heroes and units interacted, allowing heroes to participate in combat and units to have multiple abilities. It also changed the way towns and resources worked, allowing players to mix and match different town types and resources. It added six new factions: Haven (humans), Preserve (nature), Academy (wizards), Asylum (rogues), Necropolis (undead), and Stronghold (barbarians).
The fifth game in the series, Heroes of Might and Magic V, was released in 2006 for Windows and Mac OS. It was the first game in the series to be developed by a different company, Nival Interactive, after Ubisoft acquired the rights from 3DO. It returned to the roots of the series with a 3D graphics engine that resembled the style of the third game. It also returned to the classic gameplay of the series with some modifications and additions. It featured six factions: Haven (humans), Sylvan (elves), Academy (wizards), Dungeon (dark elves), Necropolis (undead), and Inferno (demons).
The sixth game in the series, Might & Magic Heroes VI, was released in 2011 for Windows. It was developed by Black Hole Entertainment and Limbic Entertainment. It continued the story of the fifth game with a prequel that took place 400 years earlier. It revamped the gameplay of the series with a new engine, new graphics, new interface, new mechanics, new features, etc. It reduced the number of factions to five: Haven (humans), Sanctuary (nagas), Stronghold (orcs), Necropolis (undead), and Inferno (demons). It also introduced a new feature: blood and tears reputation system that affected the alignment and abilities of the heroes.
The seventh game in the series, Might & Magic Heroes VII, was released in 2015 for Windows. It was developed by Limbic Entertainment. It continued the story of the sixth game with a sequel that took place ten years later. It improved upon the gameplay of the previous game with more factions (six in total), more units (more than 80), more spells (more than 60), more skills (more than 40), more artifacts (more than 100), more map objects (more than 300), etc. It also added a new feature: skill wheel that allowed players to customize their heroes' development.
The gameplay and features of the series
The gameplay of Heroes of Might and Magic is based on two main modes: adventure mode and combat mode. In adventure mode, players explore a large map filled with various terrain types, resources, artifacts, creatures, towns, buildings, events, etc. Players can control one or more heroes that lead armies of units. Heroes can gain experience, level up, learn skills, cast spells, equip artifacts, etc. Units can gain experience, upgrade, gain abilities, etc.
In combat mode, players engage in turn-based battles with enemy heroes or neutral creatures on a hexagonal grid. Players can move their units around the grid, attack enemy units, cast spells, use special abilities, etc. The outcome of the battle depends on various factors such as unit stats, hero stats, terrain type, morale, luck, tactics, etc.
The series also features various other modes and features such as scenarios, campaigns, multiplayer, map editor, random map generator, etc. that add more variety and replay value to the games. The series also features a rich lore and a complex storyline that spans across different worlds and eras. The series is set in a high fantasy universe that consists of various realms such as Ashan, Enroth, Axeoth, Xeen, etc. The series also features various factions that represent different cultures, races, philosophies, and alignments such as Haven, Inferno, Necropolis, Dungeon, Stronghold, etc.
The main titles and expansions of the series
The series consists of seven main titles and numerous expansions and spin-offs. Here is a table that summarizes the main titles and expansions of the series:
Title
Release Year
Developer
Publisher
Factions
Heroes of Might and Magic: A Strategic Quest
1995
New World Computing
New World Computing
Castle, Rampart, Necropolis, Inferno
Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Succession Wars
1996
New World Computing
New World Computing
Castle, Rampart, Necropolis, Inferno, Sorceress, Warlock
Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Price of Loyalty (expansion)
1997
Cyberlore Studios
New World Computing
Same as above
Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia
1999
New World Computing
The 3DO Company
Castle, Rampart, Necropolis, Inferno, Tower, Dungeon, Fortress, Stronghold, Conflux
Heroes of Might and Magic III: Armageddon's Blade (expansion)
1999
New World Computing
The 3DO Company
Same as above plus Cove (unofficial)
Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Shadow of Death (expansion)
2000New World ComputingThe 3DO CompanySame as above plus Cove (unofficial)Heroes Chronicles (spin-off series)2000-2001New World ComputingThe 3DO CompanyN/A (uses factions from Heroes III)Heroes of Might and Magic IV2002New World ComputingThe 3DO Company / Ubisoft / MacPlay / Feral Interactive / Cenega Poland / CD Projekt / Russobit-M / Buka Entertainment / Nival Interactive / Aspyr Media / Enlight Software / Cenega Czech Republic / Cenega Hungary / Cenega Slovakia / Cenega Romania / Cenega Bulgaria / Cenega Croatia / Cenega Serbia and Montenegro / Cenega Slovenia / Cenega Bosnia and Herzegovina / Cenega Macedonia / Cenega Albania / Cenega Estonia / Cenega Latvia / Cenega Lithuania Haven, Preserve, Academy, Asylum, Necropolis, Stronghold Heroes of Might and Magic IV: The Gathering Storm (expansion)2002 New World Computing The 3DO Company Same as above Heroes of Might and Magic IV: Winds of War (expansion) 2003 New World Computing The 3DO Company Same as above Heroes of Might and Magic V 2006 Nival Interactive Ubisoft Haven , Sylvan , Academy , Dungeon , Necropolis , Inferno Heroes of Might and Magic V: Hammers of Fate (expansion) 2006 Nival Interactive Ubisoft Same as above plus Fortress (dwarves)
Heroes of Might and Magic V: Tribes of the East (expansion)
2007
Nival Interactive
Ubisoft
Same as above plus Stronghold (orcs)
Might & Magic Heroes VI
2011
Black Hole Entertainment / Limbic Entertainment
Ubisoft
Haven, Sanctuary, Stronghold, Necropolis, Inferno
Might & Magic Heroes VI: Pirates of the Savage Sea (expansion)
2012Limbic EntertainmentUbisoftSame as above plus Dungeon (dark elves)Might & Magic Heroes VI: Danse Macabre (expansion)2012Limbic EntertainmentUbisoftSame as aboveMight & Magic Heroes VI: Shades of Darkness (expansion) 2013 Limbic Entertainment Ubisoft Same as above Might & Magic Heroes VII 2015 Limbic Entertainment Ubisoft Haven , Academy , Stronghold , Necropolis , Sylvan , Dungeon Might & Magic Heroes VII: Trial by Fire (expansion) 2016 Limbic Entertainment Ubisoft Same as above plus Fortress (dwarves)
Why is Heroes of Might and Magic so popular and influential?
Heroes of Might and Magic is one of the most popular and influential series of turn-based strategy games ever made. It has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide and has received critical acclaim from both fans and critics. It has also inspired many other games and genres, such as Age of Wonders, Disciples, King's Bounty, Lords of Magic, etc. But what makes Heroes of Might and Magic so special and appealing? Here are some possible reasons:
The appeal of the fantasy setting and the diverse factions
One of the main attractions of Heroes of Might and Magic is its fantasy setting that draws from various sources of mythology, folklore, literature, etc. The games feature a rich and immersive world that is full of magic, mystery, adventure, and wonder. The games also feature diverse factions that represent different cultures, races, philosophies, and alignments. Each faction has its own unique style, units, heroes, spells, skills, buildings, etc. that reflect its identity and characteristics. For example, Haven is a faction of noble humans who value honor, justice, and faith. They have units such as knights, archers, priests, angels, etc. Inferno is a faction of chaotic demons who value power, destruction, and corruption. They have units such as imps, gogs, succubi, devils, etc.
The diversity of the factions allows players to choose their preferred playstyle and strategy. Some factions are more suited for offense, some for defense, some for magic, some for melee, etc. Some factions are more balanced, some are more specialized, some are more versatile, etc. Some factions are more easy to play, some are more challenging, some are more fun, etc. The diversity of the factions also adds more variety and replay value to the games, as players can try different combinations and scenarios with different factions.
The challenge and depth of the strategic combat and resource management
Another main attraction of Heroes of Might and Magic is its strategic combat and resource management. The games feature a turn-based combat system that requires players to think carefully and plan ahead. The combat system involves various factors such as unit stats, hero stats, terrain type, morale, luck, tactics, etc. that affect the outcome of the battle. The combat system also involves various actions such as moving, attacking, casting spells, using special abilities, etc. that require players to make decisions and trade-offs. The combat system is challenging and rewarding, as players can use their skills and strategies to overcome their enemies.
The games also feature a resource management system that requires players to collect and manage various resources such as gold, wood, ore, gems, crystals, mercury, sulfur, etc. These resources are used to build and upgrade towns, recruit and upgrade units, buy and equip artifacts, etc. The resource management system involves various factors such as resource availability, resource distribution, resource cost, resource income, resource demand, etc. that affect the economy of the game. The resource management system is also challenging and rewarding, as players can use their skills and strategies to optimize their resources.
The replay value and modding potential of the games
A third main attraction of Heroes of Might and Magic is its replay value and modding potential. The games feature a high replay value due to their random and dynamic nature. The games feature a random map generator that can create endless scenarios with different maps, factions, units, heroes, artifacts, spells, skills, etc. The games also feature a dynamic gameplay that can change depending on various factors such as player actions, enemy actions, map events, random events, etc. The games are never the same twice, as players can experience different outcomes and possibilities with each playthrough.
The games also feature a high modding potential due to their open and flexible nature. The games feature a map editor that allows players to create their own custom maps with their own settings, objects, events, etc. The games also feature a modding community that has created various mods for the games that add new content or change existing content. Some of the most popular mods include Horn of the Abyss (for Heroes III), Equilibris (for Heroes IV), Tribes of the East Plus (for Heroes V), Might & Magic Heroes 5.5 (for Heroes V), MMH7Editor (for Heroes VII), etc. These mods enhance the games with new features, new graphics, new factions, new units, new spells, new skills, new artifacts, new maps, etc. These mods increase the replay value and modding potential of the games.
The legacy and impact of the series on the genre and the gaming culture
A fourth main attraction of Heroes of Might and Magic is its legacy and impact on the genre and the gaming culture. The series is one of the pioneers and innovators of the turn-based strategy genre, as it introduced and popularized many features and mechanics that are now common in other games. The series is also one of the most influential and respected series in the gaming industry, as it has inspired and influenced many other games and developers. The series is also one of the most beloved and celebrated series in the gaming community, as it has created a loyal and passionate fan base that spans across generations and regions.
The series has received many awards and recognitions from various sources, such as PC Gamer, IGN, GameSpot, GameSpy, Metacritic, etc. The series has also been featured in various books, magazines, documentaries, podcasts, etc. The series has also been referenced and parodied in various media, such as South Park, Family Guy, Robot Chicken, etc. The series has also been involved in various events and activities, such as tournaments, conventions, exhibitions, etc.
How to play Heroes of Might and Magic today?
If you are interested in playing Heroes of Might and Magic today, you have several options to choose from. Here are some of them:
The official versions and platforms of the games
The official versions and platforms of the games are the ones that are released by the original developers and publishers of the games. These versions and platforms are usually the most authentic and reliable ones, as they are supported and updated by the official sources. However, they may also have some drawbacks, such as compatibility issues, bugs, glitches, etc.
The official versions and platforms of the games are available on various online stores and services, such as Steam, GOG.com, Ubisoft Store, etc. These stores and services offer various benefits, such as digital download, cloud saving, achievements, etc. These stores and services also offer various discounts and deals, such as bundles, sales, etc.
Here is a table that summarizes the official versions and platforms of the games:
Title
Platforms
Stores and Services
Heroes of Might and Magic: A Strategic Quest
DOS, Windows, Mac OS, Game Boy Color
GOG.com
Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Succession Wars
DOS, Windows, Mac OS, RISC OS, Game Boy Color
GOG.com
Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Price of Loyalty (expansion)
DOS, Windows, Mac OS, RISC OS, Game Boy ColorGOG.comHeroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of ErathiaWindows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS, AndroidSteam, GOG.com, Ubisoft Store, App Store, Google Play StoreHeroes of Might and Magic III: Armageddon's Blade (expansion) Windows , Mac OS , Linux Steam , GOG.com , Ubisoft Store Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Shadow of Death (expansion) Windows , Mac OS , Linux Steam , GOG.com , Ubisoft Store Heroes Chronicles (spin-off series) Windows GOG.com Heroes of Might and Magic IV Windows , Mac OS GOG.com , Ubisoft Store , Mac App Store Heroes of Might and Magic IV: The Gathering Storm (expansion) Windows , Mac OS GOG.com , Ubisoft Store , Mac App Store Heroes of Might and Magic IV: Winds of War (expansion) Windows , Mac OS GOG.com , Ubisoft Store , Mac App Store Heroes of Might and Magic V Windows , Mac OS Steam , GOG.com , Ubisoft Store Heroes of Might and Magic V: Hammers of Fate (expansion) Windows , Mac OS Steam , GOG.com , Ubisoft Store Heroes of Might and Magic V: Tribes of the East (expansion) Windows , Mac OS Steam , GOG.com , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VI Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VI: Pirates of the Savage Sea (expansion) Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VI: Danse Macabre (expansion) Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VI: Shades of Darkness (expansion) Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VII Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store Might & Magic Heroes VII: Trial by Fire (expansion) Windows Steam , Ubisoft Store
The fan-made patches and mods for the games
The fan-made patches and mods for the games are the ones that are created and developed by the fans and modders of the games. These patches and mods are usually unofficial and unsupported by the official sources. However, they may also have some advantages, such as fixing bugs, improving performance, adding content, enhancing features, modifying gameplay, etc. These patches and mods are often essential and recommended for the fans and players of the games, as they enhance the quality and enjoyment of the games.
The fan-made patches and mods for the games are available on various websites and forums, such as ModDB, Nexus Mods, Heroes Community, etc. These websites and forums offer various benefits, such as download links, installation guides, screenshots, videos, reviews, comments, etc. These websites and forums also offer various support and feedback, such as bug reports, suggestions, questions, answers, etc.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the most popular and important fan-made patches and mods for the games:
Title
Patch or Mod
Description
Website or Forum
Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia
HD mod
A mod that allows the game to run in high resolution and widescreen modes, as well as adding various interface improvements and bug fixes.
Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia
Horn of the Abyss
A mod that adds a new faction (Cove), new units, new artifacts, new maps, new campaigns, new features, etc.
Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of ErathiaIn the Wake of GodsA mod that adds a new scripting system, new objects, new events, new features, etc.Heroes of Might and Magic V Tribes of the East Plus A mod that enhances the game with new features , such as simultaneous turns , random skill wheel , improved AI , etc . https :// www . moddb . com / mods / tribes - of - the - east - plus Heroes of Might and Magic V Might & Magic Heroes 5.5 A mod that improves the game with new graphics , new units , new spells , new skills , new artifacts , new maps , new campaigns , new features , etc . https :// www . moddb . com / mods / might - magic - heroes - 55 Might & Magic Heroes VI MMH6Editor A mod that allows players to edit the game files , such as units , spells , skills , artifacts , etc . https :// www . moddb . com / mods / mmh6editor
Conclusion
Heroes of Might and Magic is a legendary series of turn-based strategy games that has been around for more than 25 years. It has captivated millions of players with its rich lore, diverse factions, strategic combat, and replay value. It has also inspired and influenced many other games and genres. It has also created a loyal and passionate fan base that spans across generations and regions.
If you are interested in playing Heroes of Might and Magic today, you have several options to choose from, such as the official versions and platforms of the games, the fan-made patches and mods for the games, and the online communities and resources for the games. You can also check out some of the other games and genres that are inspired or influenced by Heroes of Might and Magic, such as Age of Wonders, Disciples, King's Bounty, Lords of Magic, etc.
Whether you are a veteran or a newcomer, Heroes of Might and Magic is a series that you should not miss. It is a series that offers a unique and satisfying gaming experience that will challenge your mind and immerse your imagination. It is a series that will make you feel like a hero of might and magic.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Heroes of Might and Magic:
Q: What is the difference between Heroes of Might and Magic and Might and Magic?
A: Heroes of Might and Magic is a spin-off series of Might and Magic, which is a series of role-playing games. Heroes of Might and Magic focuses on turn-based strategy gameplay, while Might and Magic focuses on first-person perspective gameplay. The two series share the same universe and lore, but have different gameplay styles and mechanics.
Q: What is the best game in the series?
A: This is a subjective question that depends on personal preference and opinion. However, many fans and critics agree that Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia is the best game in the series, as it offers the most balanced, varied, polished, and enjoyable gameplay of the series. It is also the most popular and influential game in the series, as it has the largest fan base and modding community.
Q: What is the order of the games in terms of storyline?
A: The order of the games in terms of storyline is not linear or chronological, as the games span across different worlds and eras. However, here is a possible order of the games based on their main campaigns:
Heroes of Might and Magic IV
Might & Magic Heroes VI
Heroes of Might and Magic V
Might & Magic Heroes VII
Heroes Chronicles
Heroes of Might and Magic III
Heroes of Might and Magic II
Heroes of Might and Magic
Q: How can I play multiplayer with other players?
A: You can play multiplayer with other players by using various online services and platforms, such as GameRanger, Hamachi, HotA Online Lobby, etc. These services and platforms allow you to host or join online games with other players who have the same version and mod of the game as you. You can also use various websites and forums, such as Heroes Community, to find other players who are interested in playing multiplayer with you.
Q: Where can I find more information and help about the games?
A: You can find more information and help about the games by using various online resources, such as wikis, guides, walkthroughs, videos, etc. Some of the most useful online resources are:
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