Unfrozen Studio, the developers behind Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, have unveiled further details about the intriguing Swarm faction, following the initial teaser. The team delved into the faction's design inspiration, its evolution from the initially conceived "Inferno" faction to the final "Swarm," and the overarching narrative within the Jadame continent.
The Swarm's defining characteristic is its remarkable adaptability. Certain creatures possess abilities directly influenced by the opposing unit's level; the greater the disparity, the more significant the inflicted damage. Others, such as mantises, strategically choose from three distinct abilities per round. A unique survival mechanism allows creatures like worms and locusts, and even heroes, to consume corpses for healing and enhanced power.
In Olden Era, the insectoid race, briefly alluded to in Might & Magic 8, assumes the mantle of the demonic threat. While respecting established lore, the developers infused the Swarm with elements of body horror and occultism, transforming it from a simple insect colony into a formidable cult dedicated to a singular overlord. Each member forms part of a vast hive mind, existing solely to execute its master's commands.
Gameplay revolves around the Swarm's "mono-faction" mechanic, rewarding players who utilize exclusively Swarm units due to their synergistic enhancements. Furthermore, Swarm troops can summon cocoons, whose health directly correlates to the army's overall size. Upon hatching, these larvae provide temporary units, enabling dynamic battlefield adaptations.
The Swarm's aggressive playstyle is underscored by its corpse-devouring healing and empowerment abilities, coupled with unique enemy-strength-dependent attacks. This fosters a direct confrontation approach, presenting players with a novel and compelling combat strategy.
