Unfrozen Studio, the developers behind Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, have unveiled further details about the Swarm faction, a unique addition to the game's roster. The team delved into the faction's origins, tracing its evolution from the initially conceived "Inferno" faction to the final, insectoid "Swarm," and its role within the Jadame continent's narrative.
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 damage inflicted. Others, such as mantises, strategically select from three distinct abilities each round. A notable survival mechanism involves creatures like worms and locusts consuming corpses to regenerate health and enhance their capabilities—a skill also learnable by player heroes.
In Olden Era, the insectoid Swarm assumes the role of the demonic threat, an entity only briefly alluded to in Might & Magic 8. While respecting established lore, the developers infused the Swarm with elements of body horror and occultism, transforming them from a simple insect colony into a devoted cult under a singular overlord. Each member is intrinsically linked to a vast collective consciousness, existing solely to execute its master's commands.
Gameplay revolves around a "mono-faction" mechanic, rewarding players who utilize exclusively Swarm units due to their synergistic enhancements. Swarm troops can summon cocoons, their health directly proportional to the army's overall size. These cocoons hatch into temporary larval units, offering tactical flexibility in diverse battlefield scenarios.
The Swarm's aggressive playstyle is further emphasized by its unique abilities and corpse-devouring healing and empowerment. This focus on direct confrontation provides players with a novel and engaging combat experience.
