This main game, released in 2016, is available on PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, and Linux. It offers a strategic experience that combines turn-based empire management with large-scale real-time battles. Players engage in a turn-based campaign where they build and manage their empires, conduct diplomacy, and prepare for war. This strategic layer culminates in massive real-time battles where hundreds of units clash on the battlefield, requiring tactical command and unit deployment.

The game is designed to provide hundreds of hours of gameplay, with the potential for further expansion through its interconnected trilogy of titles and additional content. It aims to deliver a fantasy strategy experience featuring legendary heroes, mythical creatures, and powerful magic.

The World and Its Conflicts

The game is set in an age of constant warfare, where various races are engaged in a struggle for dominance, each led by a powerful hero. Players can choose to lead the forces of the Empire under Karl Franz, aiming to unite the fractured lands. Alternatively, they can command the Greenskins, led by Grimgor Ironhide, who are driven by a desire for combat. The Dwarfs, under High King Thorgrim, seek to reclaim lost honor and avenge past grievances. The Vampire Counts, led by Mannfred von Carstien, pursue their own dark ambitions with undead armies. Amidst this conflict, a growing threat from the north looms, suggesting a danger that could unravel reality itself.

What Makes This Game Unique?

This title distinguishes itself through its dual gameplay structure. The turn-based campaign map allows for strategic decision-making in areas such as diplomacy, economy, and military expansion. This transitions into dynamic, real-time battles where players directly control their armies. The game features a diverse array of playable factions, each with distinct units, heroes, and strategic approaches. The incorporation of potent magic and formidable monsters adds significant depth and visual spectacle to the combat encounters.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay loop involves expanding your empire on the campaign map, managing settlements, engaging in diplomacy, and recruiting armies. When battles occur, the game shifts to real-time combat, where players command their troops, employing formations, flanking tactics, and the unique abilities of their units and heroes. Magic is a significant element, with spells that can dramatically influence battle outcomes. Role-playing elements are present through the progression of legendary lords and heroes, who gain experience, acquire items, and unlock new abilities, impacting both campaign and combat effectiveness.

Available Additional Content

The game includes a substantial amount of downloadable content, with 13 DLC packs available. These packs introduce new playable factions, legendary lords, units, and campaign scenarios, enhancing the game's scope and replayability.

What Kind of Strategy Does This Game Offer?

This game offers a combination of turn-based grand strategy and real-time tactical strategy. The campaign map requires strategic planning, resource management, and territorial expansion. Battles demand real-time tactical execution, focusing on unit maneuverability, the effective use of special abilities, and exploiting enemy weaknesses to secure victory.