Developers of Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era Reveal Details About the Swarm Faction

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 faction from its "Inferno" concept to the final "Swarm" iteration, and its role within the Jadame continent's unfolding narrative.

The Swarm's defining characteristic is its remarkable adaptability. Certain units, for example, possess abilities directly influenced by the opposing unit's level; the greater the discrepancy, the more potent the damage inflicted. Others, such as mantises, exhibit tactical flexibility, choosing from three distinct abilities each round. A unique survival mechanism allows units like worms and locusts to consume corpses, regenerating health and boosting their power – a skill also learnable by the player's heroes.

In Olden Era, the insectoid Swarm assumes the mantle of the demonic threat, a race only briefly mentioned in Might & Magic 8. While respecting established lore, the developers infused the Swarm with elements of body horror and occultism, transforming them into something far more than a simple insect colony. They are a devoted cult, bound to a single, all-powerful leader, each member a part of a vast, interconnected consciousness, existing solely to execute its master's commands.

Gameplay revolves around a "mono-faction" mechanic. Players employing exclusively Swarm units will reap significant synergistic benefits, with units bolstering one another's effectiveness. Furthermore, Swarm troops can summon cocoons, their health directly correlated to the army's overall size. Upon hatching, these larvae provide temporary reinforcements, enhancing adaptability to diverse battlefield scenarios.

The Swarm's aggressive playstyle is characterized by its units' ability to consume corpses for healing and empowerment, coupled with unique abilities that dynamically adjust based on enemy strength. This dynamic approach fosters direct confrontation and provides players with a novel combat strategy.