“Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes – Definitive Edition” is an iconic game that was originally developed by Capybara Games, but the enhanced version we are discussing here was created by Dotemu. Ubisoft acquired the rights to the series in 2003, and in 2009, they released this classic on the Nintendo DS, marking its debut. I recall playing the original very briefly, and I thought it was decent, but I don’t have as much love for it as many others who do, that being said, it was quite a nice experience to revisit this facelift version of a game. While playing it, I couldn’t help but notice how much it plays like a lot of modern mobile games today, but more on that later.
The game’s captivating narrative unfolds in the enchanting world of Ashen, home to five distinct clans – the Elves, Knights, Wizards, Necromancers, and Demons. The focus of the story mode revolves around five main protagonists, namely Godric, Aidan, Anwen, Nadia, and Fiona. As a player, you step into the shoes of these young leaders from each clan as you progress through the game’s engaging chapters. A formidable enemy threatens the world of Ashen, prompting you to embark on an epic journey to restore order. “Clash of Heroes” blends match-free puzzler and turn-based strategy elements, with some assist and complements of some RPG features that immerse players in some pretty intense battles that will require you to think smart in order to win. Each encounter consists of two sides: your group of heroes and a challenging array of enemies. The primary objective is to tactically employ your heroes’ abilities to push the opposing forces off the top of the screen, using strategic moves and timely defensive plays. Victory hinges on deploying the right units at opportune moments and unleashing their abilities with precision.
Originally designed for the Nintendo DS, the game’s display was divided across two screens. However, now that video games aren’t really made with two screens in mind in this modern age, this Definitive Edition presents the game in a single-screen. Though the adaptation is commendable, the battle interface can appear cluttered at times due to its vertical nature. There is a lot going on in the center, but not so much on the sides. Nonetheless, the gameplay experience remains captivating and immersive, which got me thinking; for such a vertical game, playing this today, felt a lot like many of the mobile games we get today that we play on our cell phones. Obviously, this is a notch above those and doesn’t have any of those pesky “gotcha” mechanics, but I wouldn’t be shocked if this game wound up on mobile someday. One of the significant upgrades in the Definitive Edition (but perhaps maybe controversial ones too) lies in the character animations during dialogue moments. The hand-drawn look, now replacing the beloved pixel art design from the original version, does add a fresh and visually appealing touch to the game. The cutscenes, albeit brief, focus on crucial plot points, further enhanced by well-executed voice acting. I can only hope people who really loved the original pixel art won’t mind, because even that art still holds up well to this day.
For a game more than a decade old, I don’t feel the need to go too much into depth with the story here, but the campaign mode offers an extensive and captivating adventure, which will require more than twenty hours of your time. For quick thrills, players can indulge in the quick match mode or challenge others in multiplayer battles. Additionally, the inclusion of the “I Am the Boss” DLC enriches the gaming experience, allowing players to assume the roles of any of the four formidable boss characters in various modes outside the campaign. With this new release that will retail for less than twenty bucks, you are certainly getting your money’s worth here. “Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes – Definitive Edition” stands as a remastered time capsule that captured the hearts of many players with its strategic gameplay, rich narrative. If this genre speaks to you at all, this one is certainly worth a pick up.
8/10
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Related: Nick Navarro Reviews
Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
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