Heroes of Might and Magic IV Q&A

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Heroes of Might and Magic IV will be the next in New World Computing's highly acclaimed fantasy-themed turn-based strategy series. Like its predecessors, the game will combine richly detailed graphics and audio with deep yet easy-to-learn gameplay elements. Yet despite its similarities to previous Heroes installments, this fourth episode will feature numerous changes to the successful formula. Perhaps the most notable of these will be the new isometric combat system, which appears much different from the side-view combat that all Heroes fans can instantly recognize. Hero characters will also be able to engage in battle directly, unlike in previous games in the series, where they directed the battle from the sidelines. Such changes are indicative of a bold new direction for Heroes of Might and Magic. GameSpot recently spoke with Jennifer Bullard, associate designer of Heroes of Might and Magic IV, about many of the game's new features, its story, and much more. We've also got several brand-new screenshots of the work in progress. Read on to find out what to expect from Heroes IV when it's released this fall.

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GameSpot: Heroes of Might and Magic IV will follow in the footsteps of its successful predecessors, but it looks to be significantly different in several key areas. What do you think is the biggest difference between Heroes IV and the previous installments?

Jennifer Bullard: Heroes now actively fight on the battlefield. Previously, heroes lent their support from the sidelines and weren't all that different from each other, but now they are part of the army. You can also have more than one hero in an army, so you could very well have several heroes on a battlefield, working in unison. With this change, players are going to have the opportunity to see if their knights can really kill a black dragon or if their necromancer can take down an angel.

GS: What's the premise of the game? How many single-player campaigns and scenarios will be included?

JB: There are going to be seven campaigns and about two dozen single-scenario maps. Heroes IV will begin with the destruction of the old world and follow the exploration and construction of new kingdoms in the new world, Axeoth. Our main campaign follows Emilia Nighthaven as she rises from peasant to queen of the new nation Great Arcan and struggles against the immortal King Gavin Magnus as he tries to usurp her throne.

GS: How will the new isometric perspective of the combat affect the game?

JB: This will enhance the visual appearance of the combat screen, and it has allowed us to provide even more animations and detailed graphics. We have also added more combat features like line of sight, elevation effects on the siege screen, and the addition of creatures to better protect archers and spellcasters.

GS: Earlier Heroes games had a whimsical theme, but the graphics in Heroes IV look more traditional. Are you going for a more serious tone for the game?

JB: We aren't going for a more serious tone, but a more realistic look with the structures and creatures. However, some of the animations are more whimsical. Wait until you see the female magician in action!