Swarm Faction Emerges in Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era

Unfrozen Studio, the developers behind Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, have unveiled further details about the intriguing Swarm faction, following an initial teaser. The team delved into their creative process, explaining the evolution of the concept from "Inferno" to "Swarm," and its integration into the Jadame continent's narrative.

The Swarm's defining characteristic is its adaptability. Certain units, for example, inflict damage scaled to the enemy's level; the larger the disparity, the greater the damage inflicted. Others, such as mantises, boast a unique three-ability rotation, allowing for tactical flexibility each turn. Furthermore, creatures like worms and locusts possess a crucial ability to consume corpses for healing and power boosts – a skill mirrored in the heroes' skill tree.

In Olden Era, the insectoid race, previously only hinted at in Might & Magic 8, assumes the role of the demonic threat. While respecting established lore, the developers incorporated elements of body horror and occultism, transforming the Swarm into more than just an insect colony; it's a cult devoted to a singular, powerful leader. Each member is a component of a vast hive mind, existing solely to execute its master's commands.

The Swarm's gameplay revolves around a "mono-faction" mechanic, rewarding players who utilize an all-Swarm army. These units synergize, enhancing each other's capabilities. They can also summon cocoons, whose health is directly tied to the army's overall size. The emerging larvae provide temporary reinforcements, enabling dynamic battlefield adaptation.

The Swarm's aggressive playstyle is emphasized by its corpse-devouring healing and power-ups, as well as abilities that shift based on enemy strength. This makes the faction ideal for direct confrontation, offering players a distinctive combat approach.